In our latest #OurEntrepreneurs profile we meet cohort 8 Clinical Entrepreneur Aizemea Okojie.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am an Obstetrics and Gynaecology senior registrar with extensive experience in both the NHS and developing health sectors, approaching healthcare from clinical and public health perspectives.
Name: Aizemea Okojie
Occupation: Registrar.
Location: University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation trust/Brighton.
I identified the need for the EV3 pessary device based on my clinical experience and my colleagues, recognising a significant gap in the treatment of a debilitating condition affecting one out of every nine women. Additionally, I serve as a clinician in the NHS, Regional Lead for the British Medical Association, and co-founder of EV3 Technologies Ltd, dedicated to revolutionising female healthcare. I also hold an MSc in Public Health from London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).
Tell us about your innovation
In the NHS, one of the critical challenges we’re addressing is the management of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in women. POP occurs when the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, descend or protrude into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and ligaments. It is estimated that 50% of women aged 50+ are living with POP. This condition significantly impacts the health and quality of life of affected individuals, leading to discomfort, pain, urinary and bowel issues, and even psychological distress.
At EV3 Technologies, our flagship innovation, “The EV3 Pessary,” represents a groundbreaking approach to addressing pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in women. This widespread condition profoundly impacts the health and quality of life of millions globally. Our goal is to introduce a pessary that surpasses current solutions in comfort, flexibility, and ease of use, thereby enhancing treatment outcomes and overall well-being for women living with POP. Alongside the EV3 Pessary, we’re developing a companion app designed to provide comprehensive support and resources for women managing POP.
By offering a more effective and user-friendly solution, we aspire to empower women to proactively manage their condition, leading to greater autonomy and improved quality of life. Additionally, our innovation has the potential to significantly alleviate the healthcare burden associated with POP, including lengthy waitlists for treatment and costly surgical interventions. Moreover, our commitment to eco-friendly practices ensures that our solution prioritises sustainable materials and manufacturing processes, promoting environmental responsibility.
In essence, our vision is to transform the landscape of POP management, providing women with renewed hope and a pathway to better health, wellness, and environmental stewardship.
Addressing pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is crucial for several reasons. First, it significantly impacts physical and mental health, affecting daily life and overall well-being. By improving management strategies, we can alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life while reducing the strain on healthcare services. Second, POP management, especially through surgical interventions, imposes substantial financial costs on healthcare systems like the NHS. With a projected 35% increase in demand for POP care over the next decade, offering effective and less invasive treatment options can mitigate the economic burden. Thirdly, many women with POP struggle to access timely and appropriate care. By implementing patient-centered and user-friendly solutions, we can enhance their overall treatment experience. Lastly, given population aging and rising obesity rates, addressing POP now ensures that healthcare systems are prepared to meet the needs of an increasingly affected population.
Why did you apply to join the programme, and what are you most looking forward to?
I discovered the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme (NHS CEP) through my co-founder and research into opportunities for healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship. I applied because I am passionate about improving women’s health and saw this as an ideal platform to develop and scale innovative solutions, whilst continuing to work in the NHS. I am most looking forward to collaborating with experts in the field, gaining valuable insights, and refining my ideas to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
I hope that the NHS CEP will provide me with access to mentorship, resources, and networks that will help me refine my innovation and navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry. Additionally, I look forward to receiving guidance on regulatory and funding aspects, which are crucial for the successful development and implementation of healthcare solutions. Overall, I anticipate that the programme will equip me with the necessary support and knowledge to accelerate the impact of my innovation within the NHS and beyond.
What are your ambitions for the next year?
My ambitions for the next year include advancing the development of our innovation, “The EV3 Pessary,” to the next stage of clinical trials and regulatory approval. Additionally, I aim to establish strategic partnerships and secure funding to support the scale-up and commercialisation of our solution. Furthermore, I aspire to continue learning and growing as a leader in healthcare innovation, while also making meaningful contributions to improving women’s health and well-being. .
Why do you think innovation is important in healthcare?
In healthcare, innovation is paramount, aligning with the UK government’s commitment to evidence-based practice and its Medical Technology Strategy. This strategy aims to cultivate a robust UK MedTech sector while ensuring that the health and care system can consistently access safe, effective, and innovative medical technologies. By fostering innovation, we enhance patient outcomes and drive progress in healthcare delivery, ultimately improving the quality of care for all individuals. .
How can we find out more?
Please contact me at aokojie3@hotmail.co.uk for more information.