‘HSE Bright Sparks’ healthcare project from Longford recognised for innovation

A team led by Dr Niamh Clarke, operating in Co. Longford, received the Best Design-led Project award for her project “Redesigning Children’s Services: A Cross Care Group Approach”, one of 12 innovative solutions to healthcare challenges recognised at the annual HSE Spark Summit in Dublin last month.

This project employed a human-centred design approach to improve the experiences of children, parents, and healthcare professionals. Project areas included creating a streamlined referral process by facilitating a single point of access to Children’s services, and a streamlined autism diagnostic pathway, co-designed with clinicians, managers, and service users. The project was rolled out in the CHO 8 Region, covering Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, and Westmeath.

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The event celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of frontline healthcare professionals, bringing together international experts, policymakers, and local innovators to explore latest advancements in healthcare innovation.

The HSE Spark Award winners show just some of the ways that using existing resources in different ways can massively improve processes and reduce pressure on healthcare professionals.

Caitriona Heffernan, HSE Spark Innovation Lead, said: “The Spark Summit is just one day in the year – but it represents the culmination of countless hours of dedication, creativity, and collaboration by frontline staff across the health service.

“It’s an opportunity to honour and recognise our colleagues’ commitment to improving patient care through innovation. It not only celebrates their achievements but also demonstrates the power of face-to-face connection to inspire learning, spark new ideas, problem-solving, and strengthen our shared drive to deliver better care across the HSE.

“This unique event showcases the ingenuity of frontline healthcare professionals who, every day, are transforming the way we think, work, and care through innovative solutions.”

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Speaking at the summit, Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, TD, said:

“At a time when our health service is under significant pressure, the HSE Spark Innovation Programme continues to highlight the strength, creativity, and commitment of our frontline workers. HSE Spark supports and mentors healthcare professionals to develop meaningful improvements, grounded in their day-to-day experience and close connection with patients and service users. It’s a reminder that even in challenging times, positive change is possible when we support and invest in those delivering care on the ground.”

The HSE Spark Innovation Programme supports innovation across the health service by providing funding, mentorship, and access to design-thinking methodology.

Information about the programme is available at HSE Spark Innovation Programme.