Overcoming barriers to NHS adoption of innovative IPC products: A qualitative study of SMEs in the Liverpool city region.

ABSTRACT: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) result in prolonged hospital stays and an increased incidence of infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in developing innovative Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) solutions, but they face substantial challenges in navigating the complex NHS procurement system. This study, carried out in the Liverpool City Region in 2022, investigated these barriers. The methodology involved qualitative data collection through an online survey and five semi-structured interviews with SMEs involved in IPC innovation. The survey targeted 114 SMEs, and the interviews were conducted remotely with management teams. Data were analysed thematically using NVivo software, allowing for the identificati

SUBMITTER: Villacorta Linaza R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12440186 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature