Based at Swansea University’s School of Management, the IHSC Academy develops programmes to support senior and aspiring leaders in driving innovation within health and social care. Through practical approaches, these programmes help organisations enhance systems, processes, and technologies to improve outcomes.
The IHSC can support NHS Wales staff at all stages of the innovation framework, offering several scholarships part funded by the Welsh Government to professional learners from across Wales. Content from our courses has been made available to assist with your journey through the pathway, including lecture videos, interviews, tool summaries, and infographics.
Fostering Innovation in Healthcare Through Collaborative Learning and Research
Healthcare systems worldwide face increasing pressures from rising costs, aging populations, and complex patient needs. To address these challenges, the All-Wales Intensive Learning Academy for Innovation in Health and Social Care at Swansea University is developing new models of collaborative learning and research. Led byDr. Daniel Rees and Dr. Roderick Thomas, the Academy works with healthcare providers, industry partners, and academic institutions to drive healthcare innovation.
Addressing Healthcare Challenges Through Innovation
Healthcare demand continues to outpace available resources, making traditional spending increases unsustainable. The Academy focuses onInnovation Management, aiming to maximize patient outcomes relative to costs. This approach reorients healthcare systems to compete on delivering better patient care rather than just controlling costs. Supported by the Welsh Government, the Academy fosters transformation through learning, research, and consultancy.
Developing Skills for Healthcare Research and Innovation
Since its 2021 launch, the Academy has developed postgraduate programmes, including MSc, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Certificates in Advanced Health and Care Innovation, Complex Systems Management, and Healthcare Technology. These flexible, blended-learning courses cater to working professionals and are accredited byCMI, FMLM, and CPD. The Academy has successfully trained 885 students (2021-2024), with many securing promotions or leadership roles. Applied learning is central, with work-based projects replacing traditional dissertations, allowing professionals to apply insights directly to industry challenges.
Research and Engagement for Real-World Impact
The Academy emphasises applied research, securing over £2 million in funding (Welsh Government, UK Government, MOD, Innovate UK, ESRC & EPSRC) and supporting 60+ industry-led projects. Notable initiatives include PhD research scholarships, where professionals conduct doctoral studies on healthcare challenges. Research has directly influenced the Welsh Government’s Innovation Strategy, showcasing the Academy’s role in bridging academia, industry, and policy. Current research topics range from clinical burnout and compassionate leadership to stroke severity prediction and cancer care innovation.
Building an Innovation Ecosystem
Beyond education and research, the Academy fosters collaboration across healthcare, social care, and industry. Initiatives such ashackathons, leadership development programmes, and knowledge transfer partnerships strengthen the innovation landscape. Collaborations with Swansea University’s iLab and Agor Innovation further connect academic research with industry applications. One example is the Partnership Development Programme, an 18-month initiative designed for clinical and executive leaders within Welsh health boards.
