CPI has published the latest reports from its MedTech Accelerator: Rapid Regulatory Support (MARRS) fund programme. Building on previous research, the reports show how stronger collaboration across industry, government, academia, and the NHS can unlock the potential of key UK MedTech sectors and accelerate innovation for the benefit of patients.
Developed through the MARRS programme, the reports – Pre-Competitive Gaps in UK MedTech and Breaking Through the Barriers Against Next-Generation Cancer Diagnostics – set out how targeted public-private action could transform UK competitiveness, boost NHS productivity and bring life-saving technologies to patients faster.
The new findings build on earlier MARRS research published in September 2025, which highlighted systemic challenges in regulation, investment and NHS adoption, and now focus on the practical models needed to overcome challenges holding whole sectors back.
The Pre-Competitive Gaps in UK MedTech report identifies systemic barriers that no single organisation can solve alone, from the need for new diagnostics and interoperable data systems to limited testbeds for clinical validation. The UK MedTech sector is worth more than £30 billion to the economy and employs around 145,000 people, yet transformative, sector-wide changes are essential to overcome these pervasive challenges, accelerate innovation and deliver better outcomes for patients. The report investigated priority areas where coordinated investment could deliver the greatest impact, including wound care and surgical robotics.
Another key report developed as part of the programme, Breaking Through the Barriers Against Next-Generation Cancer Diagnostics, outlines how the UK can accelerate the development and adoption of next-generation cancer diagnostic solutions. It focuses on advancing technologies from cutting-edge research, such as circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), proteomics, multi-omics, and spatial biology, moving them from promising research into routine clinical practice. Earlier and more accurate detection has the potential to save thousands of lives and significantly reduce the annual cost of cancer care, whilst growing the UK’s leadership within this important global industry.
Dr Pari Datta, Head of Technology Strategy for HealthTech and IVD at CPI, said the findings set out a clear, actionable vision to accelerate the development of the next generation of diagnostic solutions to advance cancer care, commenting: “This report sets out a bold vision for collaboration led by the UK, uniting global industry leaders, innovative UK SMEs, and the UK’s world-class scientific and clinical community. For too long, technologies like proteomics, multi-omics, and spatial biology have remained in research settings despite their potential to transform patient outcomes. To change this, we need to work together to reduce risk and accelerate adoption.