Experts told the Lampard Inquiry that Oxevision, a patient monitoring system used in NHS wards, lacks strong independent evidence of improved safety.
Key facts
- •The Lampard Inquiry is investigating more than 2,000 patient deaths in Essex over a 24-year period.
- •Oxevision uses infrared sensors and cameras to monitor patients in their rooms.
- •Oxford University researchers reviewed 45 studies and found them insufficient to prove safety or cost-effectiveness.
- •LIO Health reported that the technology helped staff respond to 1,453 safety incidents in one trust over four years.
- •The inquiry is scheduled to resume in October, with a final report expected in 2028.
The Lampard Inquiry, which is investigating the deaths of over 2,000 mental health patients in Essex, has heard that there is no strong independent evidence that the Oxevision monitoring system improves patient safety. Two academics from the University of Oxford testified on Thursday after reviewing 45 studies used to justify the technology's implementation across the NHS.
By the numbers
Expert findings on Oxevision
Prof Christl Donnelly and Dr Maria Christodoulou reported that many of the studies used to support the technology were either not extensive enough or involved Oxevision employees. They concluded that the existing research does not demonstrate improved patient safety, cost-effectiveness, or acceptability. The experts stated that further independent, randomised, and controlled research is required to draw stronger conclusions.
Company response and campaign concerns
LIO Health, the company behind Oxevision, maintains that the technology plays a vital role in inpatient care. The company stated that in one trust, the system assisted staff in responding to 1,453 safety incidents over four years. Conversely, the campaign group Stop Oxevision has called for a halt to its use, with spokesperson Hat Porter citing concerns over the lack of regulation for technologies deployed without a robust, independent evidence base.
Timeline
- OctoberThe inquiry will resume to consider potential interim recommendations.
- Late 2027Hearings for the inquiry are scheduled to conclude.
- 2028The final report from the Lampard Inquiry is expected.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by BBC Health.
