Redistributed manufacturing to support field medical care

Abstract

Aims The aim of redistributed manufacturing (RDM) is to bring production closer to the point of clinical use thereby enhancing the capability to deliver immediate and optimised medical care. Additional benefits include reducing logistical burden and costs, and improving supply resilience. The aim of our preliminary investigation was to scope potential RDM technology innovations with an emphasis on support to field medical care. Three key imperatives were selected: > increased freedom of movement, agility, fl exibility and robustness > reduced resource utilisation and complexity, increased independence and potential modularisation > enhanced fi eld care, sustainable, scalable and remote technologies. Methods Our investigation followed a qualitative, narrative, mixed-methods approach. An academic working group was created with representation from health tech innovation teams, design, engineering, logistics, medical textiles, cell therapies and device manufacturing. Initial workshop discussion was focused upon a number of 'real-life' scenarios through which a process of analysis was carried out in the following domains: > existing capability gap > scientifi c and engineering feasibility > financial metrics > patient and end-user focused outcomes > regulatory considerations.