Technology to tackle major health challenges in Victoria

15 December 2011

Minister for Technology Gordon Rich-Phillips has called on healthcare professionals and community health providers to submit ideas on how technology might help their patients and improve productivity in healthcare.

The $15 million Health Market Validation Program (MVP) is seeking solutions to healthcare challenges in order to achieve better health outcomes, improve healthcare service delivery and deliver economic benefits for Victoria.

"Clinicians, nurses, hospitals, aged care services, dental services and community health providers are encouraged to submit ideas on how technology might help patients and improve productivity in healthcare," Mr Rich-Phillips said.

In the first instance, up to $100,000 will be available for feasibility studies to investigate the viability of a proposed solution. Projects will then be assessed for further funding of up to $1.5 million to develop the technology and undertake validation activities.

The new Health MVP aims to encourage demand-driven innovation in Victoria's healthcare system, ultimately providing an economic benefit to Victoria.

The grants program is designed to unearth innovative healthcare solutions, support small and medium enterprises and strengthen Victorian health agencies.

Victorian health-focused public sector-controlled entities have until Tuesday 31 January 2012 to submit their technology requirement specifications.

Further information

For further information about the program including guidelines and how to apply, visit www.business.vic.gov.au/hmvp.