TechForce19

In March 2020, PUBLIC partnered with NHSX, the digital arm of the UK National Healthcare System, to create TechForce19 - a challenge programme aimed at scouting, assessing, piloting and ultimately scaling technology solutions that could provide transformational value during the COVID-19 crisis. 

TechForce19 used a methodology designed by PUBLIC consisting of a 6-stage process: i) challenge definition, ii) open calls for technology providers, iii) selection and due-diligence, iv) pilots and implementation and v) recommendations for scale. 

The programme focused on three challenge areas:

i) Providing remote social care to vulnerable citizens that were isolating
ii) Optimising staffing in care and volunteering sector
iii) Enabling the delivery of mental health services and the self-management of mild mental health conditions

In delivering TechForce19, PUBLIC concentrated on delivering value to NHSX in 4 key areas: 

i) Finding the best innovation & technology available in the market
PUBLIC assessed the technical feasibility, solution credibility and public sector compliance of over 1600 applications from technology providers. 53 dynamic  providers were invited to an interview, and 18 were down-selected to deliver pilots and trials.

ii) Providing a path for scale
Companies were provided with the support and tools for successful deployment and scale. For example, as a result of TechForce19 the social care company Alcuris managed to close long term contracts with three local authorities.

iii) Moving fast & saving NHSX time
In total the process took 6-weeks, faster than any previous challenge programme of its type.

iv) Creating a compliant and safe procurement process
Techforce19 was specifically designed to be compliant with UK Government procurement practices and fully mirrored a legally and internally compliant procurement.

Selected startups included Birdie, providing a digital platform for home care agencies to better manage the care they provide; Virti, a virtual and augmented reality solution using its immersive training platform to upskill the NHS workforce in order to tackle COVID-19; and Vinehealth, a mobile app to support cancer patients and their loved ones during treatment by allowing them to easily track and understand their care, including their symptoms, side effects, appointments and medications.