The multi-year partnership will support the adoption of cargo drones. Initially, this will include delivery of items such as pathology samples and medical supplies across the region. In the future, we will be exploring the potential to use piloted electric aircraft for medical transport.
Geographic isolation and weather dependency present unique challenges when it comes to delivering equitable access to healthcare across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Informed by work previously carried out as part of the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Future Flight Challenge programme, the agreement will see Open Skies Network formalise take-off and landing locations and infrastructure for active medical drone use in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. It will also pave the way for future adoption of piloted electric aircraft, creating a blueprint for a future-ready health and care system that can be replicated across urban, rural and island communities around the world.
Debbie Richards, chief executive at Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘With 30 miles of water between the Isles of Scilly and the mainland, our region's geography dictates that we do things differently. Our work with Open Skies Network is all about adopting new technology and helping the NHS to realise the benefits of drone technology and digital integration to deliver improved patient care and responsiveness.
‘Whether it is same-day prescriptions and medical sample deliveries or supporting clinical teams to provide care closer to patients' homes, reducing healthcare-related travel, our goal is to ensure timely access to care and resources, regardless of geography.'
Gareth Whatmore, chief executive at Open Skies Network, added: ‘From drone deliveries of testing kits and PPE during Covid, to the first long-haul and intra-island medical drone operations, our previous work in Cornwall has led UK capability for the NHS when it comes to drone-enabled healthcare logistics.'
The next stage of this work will focus on robust validation, including infrastructure and safety protocols. This will involve validation flights to ensure the right drones are selected to safely deliver supplies and meet the needs of the local community.
Councillor Avril Mumford, lead member for adults and public health at the Council for the Isles of Scilly, said: ‘Recognition of our geographic challenges has led to some really innovative health and care service delivery over recent years, with our integrated neighbourhood teams already recognised as national trailblazers for their approach to the integration of health and social care.
‘We look forward to supporting our NHS and Open Skies Network colleagues to further future-proof health and care services in the region to reduce the need to travel from the islands to the mainland for healthcare over time.'
