AI innovation at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital shortlisted for HSJ Digital Awards 2024

Digital innovation pilot project, Dora, within the Ophthalmology Department at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, has been shortlisted for the Driving Change through AI and Automation Award in the HSJ Digital Awards 2024 which recognises digital innovation in improving patient care pathways. 

Patients who are undergoing cataract surgery at the hospital are now supported by ‘Dora’, an AI-powered solution developed by Ufonia, in a pilot study launched at the hospital in November 2023. The Dora solution aims to streamline cataract care delivery, improve efficiency in the service and enhance the patient experience. 

The voice-based clinical assistant uses automation to deliver routine clinical conversations, telephoning patients throughout their cataract journey from referral to recovery while also aiming to reduce waiting times and unnecessary appointments for patients. 

Through support from Dora, the clinical service is able to improve its speed and efficiency, increasing clinical capacity.  

The HSJ Digital Awards highlight the power of digital technology within healthcare and celebrate the innovation that takes place across the NHS, in transforming care and services by maximising efficiency and improving patient outcomes.  

Mr Richard Lee, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Service Director leading Dora’s implementation at the Trust and CW Innovation Horizon Fellow said:  

‘We’re delighted to have been shortlisted for the Driving Change through AI and Automation Award in this year’s HSJ Digital Awards.  

“The Dora pilot is demonstrating the benefit of safely using AI to improve the patient experience throughout their cataract care while freeing up clinician time to dedicate to higher value work elsewhere in the care pathway.”   

Roger Chinn, Chief Medical Officer, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said: 

“We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation within the organisation and being leaders in digital health technology – doing this while prioritising patient safety and well-being, alongside the responsible use of AI. 

“It is brilliant to see the Dora service within our ophthalmology department be recognised as a shortlisted entry in this category, as this pilot study emphasises patient safety, while offering many benefits to the service.”  

The second stage of judging takes place from 29 April – 7 May, with the winners to be announced on Thursday 6 June.