In our latest #OurEntrepreneurs profile we meet cohort 8 Clinical Entrepreneur Sophie Newton, GP, and Content Creator.
Tell us a bit about yourself
After starting my career in advertising, I now practice as a GP in Yorkshire. My days are filled with caring for patients, and my evenings are shared with my TV director husband, three wonderful children, and our two dogs. I love staying fit, eating well, and embracing the joys of life!
Name: Sophie Newton
Occupation: GP and Content Creator
Location: Station Road Surgery, Halifax
Tell us about your innovation
I have created a patient information YouTube channel, with videos on common conditions in primary care, which can be texted out to patients by clinicians. The impact is two-fold: firstly, it creates efficiencies for clinicians, saving both consultation numbers and time, and secondly, it empowers patients with information they can trust to gain better control of their own health.
NHS primary care is facing significant challenges including GP attrition, rising staff burnout, and increased patient frustration due to waiting times and challenges booking appointments. My videos enable GPs to text videos to patients, helping to reduce appointment numbers and speed up consultations, as well as reducing the requirement for additional appointments and follow-ups. From the patient’s perspective, they can access reliable and easy to understand health information for themselves and their families.
Why did you apply to join the programme, and what are you most looking forward to?
I found out about the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme when a colleague sent me the details and suggested I apply. I’m really excited to meet like-minded clinicians, who, like me, are keen to try and help the NHS improve with ingenuity, forward-thinking and a positive attitude!
I hope the programme can help me to transform my innovation into a sustainable business, so that I can continue to provide these videos which I believe could make a huge difference in primary care.
What are your ambitions for the next year?
My goal is to expand my channel, attract more subscribers, and explore investment, sponsorship, and grant opportunities to ensure its long-term sustainability.
I also hope to get more GP practices on-board and using the videos.
Why do you think innovation is important in healthcare?
Our healthcare system faces the challenge of increasing patient numbers and complexity. Our existing models are struggling to adapt to the rapid changes required to meet the demands of our modern world, but I believe innovation is the answer.
How can we find out more?
Please visit my YouTube channel for more information.