Revolutionary AI project receives £600,000 grant to detect inflammatory arthritis early

The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust (RBFT) and the University of Reading (UoR) have been awarded a prestigious £600,000 grant from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

Building on the work already started between RBFT and UoR, this collaboration aims to use artificial intelligence (AI) to detect inflammatory arthritis at an early stage, offering hope to patients suffering from the debilitating condition. By combining the clinical expertise from the Rheumatology Department at RBFT and the research capabilities of the UoR’s data scientists we aim to integrate AI into healthcare. Our overall ambition is to transform healthcare and improve patient outcomes.

This 18-month research project starting in October 2023 will see collaboration between healthcare clinicians, data ethicists, and experts in AI, health inequalities, bio-analytics and weather, including our Patient Leaders and BOB ICB.

Dr. Antoni Chan, RBFT Consultant Rheumatologist highlighted the immense potential of this project, stating “Early detection of inflammatory arthritis is key to preventing long-term joint damage and improving patient outcomes. With the assistance of AI, we are working with the UoR to achieve more accurate and timely diagnoses, leading to tailored treatment plans and relieving the suffering of those affected”.