Expansion of London’s NHS drone delivery network unveiled – UKTN

UK healthcare logistics start up Apian has unveiled initial details about the expansion of the NHS drone delivery network in London.

Matternet will be marking its operational debut in the region by joining Apian’s multi-operator platform. The Californian firm specialises in urban drone delivery, carrying lab samples, pharmaceuticals and medical supplies in Switzerland since 2017 and in the US since 2019.

This builds on Apian’s existing service at Guy’s and St Thomas’ with drone delivery service Wing, by adding additional routes and a focus on NHS pathology networks, including centralised hubs such as the Synlab facility in Blackfriars.

Professor Ian Abbs, chief executive of Guy’s and St Thomas’, said: “The drone trial has been an innovative way to help us care for our most vulnerable patients by speeding up test results, and doing this in a way which is sustainable.”

Apian is also advancing plans for autonomous ground delivery robots, designed to automate the final ‘clinical metre’ of hospital logistics.

The robots will enable hands-free transport of samples and supplies directly between delivery drones and clinical teams with the aim of reducing delays and freeing up staff.

Apian is working with Great Ormond Street Hospital to scope the integration of this technology alongside its drone operations.

Apian co-founder and chief executive Alexander Trewby added: “From 5,000 patient samples delivered at Guy’s and St Thomas’, to quadruped robots at GOSH – we are building intelligent infrastructure that quietly transforms care.

“Our new partner Matternet brings choice and scale, helping us create logistics that work invisibly in the background and freeing up clinical teams to focus on the patients who need it most.”

Apian continues to work closely with the Civil Aviation Authority as well as NATS, the air traffic management service, to ensure the safety of drone operations.

“As a leader in medical drone delivery, we are well positioned to support the NHS in delivering faster, smarter and more equitable care for patients across the UK,” said Matternet chief executive Andreas Raptopoulos.

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