Two teams from University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) are celebrating national success at this year’s HSJ Digital Awards.
The Stroke Thrombectomy and Interventional Neuroradiology teams won all three categories they were shortlisted for, recognising their use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve outcomes for stroke patients.
They took home the Digital Team of the Year, Driving Change through AI and Automation and Optimising Clinical Pathways through Digital awards.
Judges praised the service’s innovation, impact and collaborative approach.
UHNM Chief Executive Dr Simon Constable said: “This is an outstanding achievement and a proud moment for the Trust.
“Winning three national HSJ Digital Awards is not only a tribute to the innovation and teamwork of our stroke thrombectomy service and neuroradiology teams – it is a victory for our patients and the people of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
“It means that local people have access to one of the most advanced, responsive and effective stroke services in the country, right here on their doorstep.”
Royal Stoke University Hospital was one of the first in the UK to establish a dedicated 24/7 thrombectomy team, delivering potentially life-saving treatment using a specialist procedure that removes blood clots from deep inside the brain.
More than 250 patients benefitted from a mechanical thrombectomy procedure at UHNM last year – one of the highest rates in the country.
Dr Sanjeev Nayak, Consultant Interventional Neuroradiologist at UHNM, said: “These awards reflect the dedication, innovation and teamwork of an incredible multidisciplinary group – including stroke physicians, radiographers, anaesthetists, physiotherapists and nurses – who work tirelessly to deliver the best possible care for our patients.
“While nationally only around ten per cent of stroke patients are eligible for thrombectomy, UHNM now treats 15 per cent – almost five times the national average of 3.3 per cent. In 2024, we treated 254 patients compared to 206 the previous year, all while improving our response times and patient outcomes. The introduction of AI has played a pivotal role, allowing us to rapidly assess brain scans, identify clots and act quickly to save lives and reduce disability.”
- North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare Trust also enjoyed success at the awards, being Highly Commended in Driving Change through Data and Analytics for its Keep Warm, Keep Well initiative.
