MHRA Approves AI Tool for Detecting Healthcare-Associated Infections

Key Takeaways

Sanome’s AI system, MEMORI, has received regulatory approval for predicting healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).
The tool can identify HAIs up to 72 hours earlier and is designed to integrate smoothly into clinicians’ workflows.
Sanome aims to enhance NHS capacity and reduce costs by enabling timely interventions.

Regulatory Approval and Capabilities

HealthTech company Sanome has secured regulatory approval for its innovative AI system, MEMORI, which focuses on predicting healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) by analyzing data from electronic patient records (EPRs). Approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, MEMORI has also achieved EU Class IIb CE certification, facilitating its rollout across the UK and Europe.

MEMORI excels in early detection, identifying HAIs up to 72 hours earlier than traditional methods by analyzing real-time patient data—such as vital signs and clinical notes. The system seamlessly delivers alerts into clinicians’ workflows, enhancing efficiency without adding extra burden.

Founder and CEO Benedikt von Thüngen shared a personal motivation for the tool, explaining, “My father died in hospital because early warning signs were missed.” He emphasized that MEMORI is designed to ensure no one else endures a similar experience, illustrating its purpose of empowering clinicians with invaluable insights.

Burden of Healthcare-Associated Infections

Healthcare-associated infections, like MRSA and C. difficile, impose a significant financial strain on the National Health Service (NHS), costing around £2.7 billion annually. These infections also account for an extra seven million hospital bed days each year. Sanome asserts that MEMORI supports the NHS’s 10-year health plan by facilitating earlier interventions, thus reducing complications and minimizing costs, ultimately enhancing hospital capacity.

Strategic Advisory Board and Industry Support

Sanome has bolstered its leadership by appointing three new members to its strategic advisory board. The new members include Lord James Bethell, former health minister; Dr. Arrash Yassaee, deputy director of MedTech Innovation at NHS England; and Professor Carole Longson, former chief scientific officer at the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry.

Lord Bethell remarked, “During my career, I’ve seen first-hand the pressure on our frontline services and how urgently we need smarter, faster tools to support clinical decisions and protect patients.” He characterized MEMORI as a transformative solution, emphasizing its potential to save lives and relieve the burden on healthcare systems.

Future Collaborations and Goals

Sanome is actively collaborating with NHS trusts and technology providers to foster data-sharing initiatives. Additionally, the firm aims to secure approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), indicating its ambition to expand its impact on a global scale. By leveraging cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of healthcare needs, Sanome aspires to lead advancements in patient care and safety.

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