The value of Academic Medical Centres as drivers of population health and wealth has long been recognised but their successful development is not easy. Drawing on unparalleled clinical academic expertise and experts in related disciplines from HR to digitalisation, we can assist clients co-develop transformative systems that reflect the local context and their aspirations. From governance arrangements through to tractable research and enterprise strategies and staffing needs, we can help you realise your goals.
Our service range is illustrated by examples of the projects we’ve undertaken over the past few years:
1 King's College London / King's Health Partners / Guy's & St Thomas' Foundation Trust
AHS was engaged by KCL following the loss of NIHR Biomedical Research Centre designation. We reviewed the Centre's research portfolio, research impact, particularly for its local and regional populations, and leadership of governance. The AHS team was led by Prof Sir John Tooke. It was supported by a panel of AHS advisers to ensure expert coverage of KCL research themes. We conducted desktop research, literature reviews and identified useful exemplars. We undertook stakeholder interviews amongst King's Health Partner members and with international comparators. We shared our findings and recommendations at key stages of the project. These set out a programme to reestablish a robust research programme, leadership and governance in preparation for the forthcoming Academic Health Science Centre and Biomedical Research Centre applocatins rounds.
The proposals in our final report were well recevied. Following our report KCL has appointed a Chief Academic Officer, Prof Graham Lord. Graham will be implementing the changes to research strategy and governance which formed the core of our recommendations. We look forward to seeing a successful reapplication in 2025/6.
2 Imperial Healthcare NHS Trust
Malcolm Lowe-Lauri was engaged by Imperial to scope the opportunity for a centre for infection research and implementation on the St Mary's Hospital campus. There was a sense in the Trust that, against the background of the recent pandemic and the emerging global threat of antimicrobial resistance, St Mary's could play more of a role in applied infection research.
Working with colleagues in Grant Thornton Malcolm deployed a 5 case model: clinical strength, research strength, investor interest (including philanthropy), developer interest, and industry support. He conducted desk research, international comparator identification, and a range of purposive interviews with stakeholders and external experts. He also drew on AHS adviser expertise. His report identified a sound case which was accepted by the partnership steering group.
Since Malcolm’s work the Trust and University have launched the Fleming Initiative. This is intended to generate a movement “to put society at the heart of solving the problem of antimicrobial resistance.” As part of the Initiative a fundraising programme to finance the Fleming Centre for Infection has begun, grounded in our work.
Other relevant recent work includes:
Hong Kong University AHSC: Strategic review, implementation plan and academic clinicla career pathway redesign.
University Of British Columbia: Strateguc review and governance advice on AHSC:AHSS merger.
Melborne Academic Centre for Health: Strategic review and implementaiton plan.
Brisbane Diamantina AHSC: Strategic review and faculty development
