Drones could soon be transporting PPE kit between hospitals

The project is the idea of Apian, part of the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme, which aims to establish a network of secure air corridors for electric drones to navigate via satellite-enabled GPS. The remote-controlled drones will be piloted by ex-military jet or helicopter instructors.

Each drone will be able to carry COVID-19 samples, test-kits and PPE. It is hoped that not only will this avoid courier call-out waiting times and free up NHS staff, it will reduce physical contact and minimise the risk of secondary transmission of the virus too.

Drone pads will be installed at hospitals, laboratories and warehouses, to enable the aircraft to take off and land safely.

The project will be supported by the local Anglia Ruskin University as the academic partner, and will be based at Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford, Essex, which stands on a WW1 Royal Flying Corps Airfield,.

Christopher Law, from Apian, said: “We are confident that by setting up a medical drone delivery service, we’ll be able to fly samples to labs more regularly, reliably and quickly, improving patient health outcomes.”

Science Minister Amanda Solloway described the project as a fantastic example of how space scientists are supporting those directly on the frontline to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

* https://www.gov.uk/government/news/space-company-takes-to-the-skies-alongside-the-nhs

Published On: 22/10/2020 15:00:28

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