STORY
The Government has announced £85 million of public and industry funding for projects intended to improve obesity care and reduce pressure on health services.
The Obesity Pathway Innovation Programme will support 12 projects across the UK, including apps, round the clock virtual advice and AI assisted triage. The funding includes up to £50 million from Government and up to £35 million from pharmaceutical company Lilly.
Ministers said the programme would help people access support earlier and make services easier to use, particularly in underserved communities. The announcement comes as the NHS faces increasing demand linked to obesity and associated long term health conditions.