Innovation
What is Intellectual Property (IP)?
Intellectual Property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, designs, names, images, or written content, that can be legally owned and protected. In the NHS this could be a novel treatment, a new diagnostic, a device, a new drug or its new use, use of data, software, mobile apps, training material, a treatment protocol, or a new management system.
Types of IP in the NHS
- Patents: Protect inventions or new methods, such as medical devices or innovative treatment protocols
- Copyright: Applies to original written works, software, educational materials, and other creative outputs
- Trademarks: Protect logos, names, and symbols used to identify products or services
- Design Rights: Cover the design aspects of a product’s shape, appearance, or configuration
- Know How/Confidential Information: Protect confidential business information
IP Ownership
All employees of UHDB are subject to the Intellectual Property Policy (opens in new window) >. Typically, IP created by NHS staff during their work is owned by the NHS Trust, especially if developed as part of NHS-funded research. For projects involving external partners, such as universities or private companies, contractual arrangements are made at the start to clarify who owns what and how any potential revenue will be shared.
Intellectual Property is managed through our Intellectual Property Policy. All staff are encouraged to discuss any potential IP with R&D by emailing uhdb.randdadmin@nhs.net
Innovation and collaboration support
We work with a number of partners across the region in helping develop innovative projects.