From the Lecture Theatre to Westminster: Reflections on My First Months at ABHI
This placement so far has been nothing short of a whirlwind, offering me an incredible introduction to the world of Government Affairs and HealthTech. Coming into the role with a background in Human Physiology, Physical Activity and Health, which I study at the University of Leeds (alongside, by complete and utter coincidence, Luella’s daughter!), has been useful over the past few months.
When developing the 2025 Pulse of the Sector report, which we will publish in January 2026, my scientific background was rather useful given the immense data analysis required. I also had the opportunity to capture minutes and actions at the All-Party Parliamentary Group Vascular and Venous Disease (VVAPPG) event on ‘The Future of Vascular Care’. Drawing on an undergraduate essay focused on diagnosis and treatment of Peripheral Artery Disease, alongside recent Integrated Care Board (ICB) remodelling research I had completed at ABHI, enabled me to contribute meaningfully to discussions shaping the group’s policy paper on reforming the treatment of vascular lower limb disease. To sit at a table surrounded by such experienced clinicians, innovators and policy officials was both daunting and inspiring, and the valuable experience this gives me as an intern is outstanding.
While my degree focuses on the use of exercise and physical activity to improve health and prevent and treat disease, this placement has opened my eyes to the equally vital role of HealthTech within the NHS, enabling earlier detection and prevention of disease, and helping patients move from hospital to home. Seeing innovations up close, from visits to ABHI member companies including Pennine Healthcare and Johnson+Johnson, as well some incredible rehabilitation technology that was showcased at the recent Medical Technology Awareness Week Parliamentary Reception, has really brought together my interests in physical activity and HealthTech. It has also prompted me to reflect on why I chose both my course and this placement: to help improve people’s health and quality of life through innovation in healthcare.
Of course, there have been plenty of new challenges that my university course certainly did not prepare me for, especially when it comes to understanding the UK’s regulatory landscape. Beyond a few initial admin mishaps (sending emails without attachments and scheduling meetings for 6am), I was tasked with gathering responses for the 2025 Pulse of the Sector survey, coordinating diary time with Heads of Government Affairs across three different multinational companies, as well as providing administrative support to our Scotland and Government Affairs Groups.
One of the highlights of the calendar year as an ABHI intern, which I certainly cannot forget to mention, is the annual ABHI UK HealthTech Conference. This year’s had an outstanding line-up of speakers, countless tea breaks, and even a few nods to Manchester (which as a Mancunian, I much appreciated). It was also a welcome opportunity to finally put names to faces for the many people who receive my emails. At the conference, it was inspiring seeing the willingness of both the industry, government and NHS to collaborate to ensure patients have access to life-saving technologies.
While I was occasionally disheartened in the early months of this placement by how slowly change can be delivered at a bureaucratic level - the Brexit vote was, after all, nearly a decade ago and regulatory reform is still ongoing - especially when compared with the pace of UK innovation, there is much reason for optimism. With a clear steer from the NHS 10 Year Health Plan, and a commitment to open 250 Neighbourhood Health Centres as announced in the Autumn Budget, I am excited to follow developments like these closely throughout 2026. I look forward to ensuring the voice of HealthTech is clearly represented in these discussions.
Emma Rowbottom, Government Affairs Researcher, ABHI
