ABOUT
VIRTUAL WARD TECHNOLOGIES
Virtual Ward Technologies Ltd emerged from a critical moment in modern healthcare history - the COVID-19 pandemic.
When the Welsh Government called for innovations as part of the UK Ventilator Challenge, our team responded with more than just a device; we pioneered a new approach to healthcare delivery.
Our Origins
In early 2020, we developed the WG7 Covid CPAP Unit - a revolutionary clean-sheet design specifically engineered for respiratory pandemic response. This CPAP device wasn't just another piece of medical equipment; it was designed with home use in mind, incorporating advanced monitoring technology that allowed healthcare providers to track patient progress remotely. This innovation earned rapid MHRA approval for use during the pandemic, demonstrating our commitment to rigorous safety standards and clinical excellence.
The Virtual Ward Concept
We coined the term 'Virtual Ward' to describe our unique approach to healthcare delivery. The concept was inspired by traditional doctor's rounds but reimagined for the modern era. Our technology enables healthcare providers to monitor and care for patients in their homes while maintaining the same level of oversight and care quality found in hospital settings.
Our initial clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic proved transformative. While successfully treating COVID-19 patients at home, we discovered our system's potential for managing various other medical conditions. This revelation led us to expand our vision beyond pandemic response to revolutionising healthcare delivery across multiple sectors.
Evolution and Impact
Following our initial success, we broadened our horizons to explore applications in:
- Social Care
- Workplace Health
- Child Obesity Management
- Comprehensive Cancer Care
Our innovative approach to healthcare delivery earned us the prestigious Wales NHS Innovation Award in 2024, validating our vision of technology-enabled, patient-centred care.
Our Vision for the Future
As part of the Welsh Government's Accelerated Growth Program, we're positioned to transform healthcare delivery on a larger scale. Our vision extends beyond traditional healthcare boundaries, embracing a future where:
- Digital health hubs serve as neighbourhood centres
- Advanced wearables provide continuous health monitoring
- AI-powered systems offer preventative care insights
- Communities are connected through shared health initiatives
We're committed to creating a healthcare system that's more accessible, efficient, and proactive while maintaining the human touch that's essential to quality care.
Looking Forward
Virtual Ward Technologies Ltd stands at the forefront of healthcare innovation as we prepare to enter the marketplace. We're not just creating technology; we're reshaping the future of healthcare delivery to be more personal, preventative, and accessible to all.
Our journey from pandemic response to comprehensive healthcare innovation demonstrates our commitment to improving lives through technology-enabled care. We continue to evolve and adapt, always keeping our core mission in focus: bringing high-quality healthcare closer to home.
MEET THE TEAM
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CEO & FOUNDER
Experienced clinician with over 25 years in Anaesthesia and Critical Care. Founded the Wales Air Ambulance Service and moved into business. Designed, built and gained MHRA Approval for a Ventilation device for the UK Ventilator Challenge. It was highly successful at Clinical trial. One of the first companies to design, build and publish evidence with Virtual Platforms and Covid Care and Virtual Ward Technologies Ltd. Passionate that the family, community and now business also benefit from this health advantage.
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CHIEF ENGINEER
A successful Engineering and Research & Development Product Executive with over 35 years of experience in Medical Devices, Automotive electronics and Consumer products. Working in a number of SMEs and Global Corporations, specialising in Electromechanical/Electronic Product R&D and Application Engineering for both in-house products and global customers… “I pride myself on always keeping a hands-on approach through all levels of my career, which has allowed me to undertake projects from initial idea generation through to high volume manufacture”.
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SOCIAL CARE LEAD
Kevin Doughty is a Visiting Professor in the Digital Transformation of Health and Social Care services at the Institute of Life Sciences at the University of Cumbria. He advises staff on the development of courses in Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Social Care.Kevin’s special interests include the development of personal profiles of potential users of technology, together with the evaluation and testing of new technologies and of product frameworks to improve quality. These feed into new methods of assessment that focus on identifying and addressing the widest possible range of unmet needs using both conventional and lighter touch approaches, especially digital technologies, apps, and worn devices.
Talk to a healthcare professional today
Professor
Rhys Thomas
CEO & FOUNDER
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