On 2 November, NHS England set out plans to fast-track the introduction of seven new types of medical technology products and apps. 

Six will be covered by the new Innovation and Technology Tariff. The new tariff is intended to help cut the difficulties experienced by innovators and clinicians in getting uptake and spread of these technologies and services across the NHS. 
 
The following six innovation types will be included in the Innovation and Technology Tariff:

• Guided mediolateral episiotomy to minimise the risk of obstetric anal sphincter injury
• Arterial connecting systems to reduce bacterial contamination and the accidental administration of medication
• Pneumonia prevention systems which are designed to stop ventilator-associated pneumonia
• Frozen faecal microbiota transplantation for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection rates
• Prostatic urethral lift systems to treat lower urinary tract symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia as a day case.

The 15 Academic Health Science Networks (AHSNs) in England have collectively agreed to support and drive rapid and consistent adoption of these technologies, and will be a source of local advice and help, and now West Midlands AHSN is supporting the drive to encourage their uptake via its Meridian online health innovation exchange.
 
Meridian is a pioneering interactive platform for anyone to share their innovations and ideas, build groups and networks and make contact with people whose innovations could change healthcare in the West Midlands. The website supports the adoption of good practice in health and social care and shares lessons learned from across the sector.

The six innovation areas in the tariff have now been posted as campaigns on Meridian, allowing innovators to submit their ready-made ideas for consideration under the tariff and ultimately letting NHS providers take advantage of new and innovative treatments, procedures, devices and products.

For more detail on the six innovation types included in the Innovation and Technology Tariff, and for instructions on how to submit treatments, procedures, devices and products for inclusion, go to Meridian.