The Neotree

Neotree is a partnership project led by UCL's Grand Challenge of Global Health. The aim of the project was to improving the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis in low-resource healthcare settings through digital innovations. The project focused on developing and refining predictive models to ensure early diagnosis and effective treatment, ultimately reducing neonatal mortality rates.

YouTube Widget Placeholderhttps://youtu.be/g7RvhkLMSYw

Objective and approach:

The project’s objective was to develop and implement a digital platform that supports healthcare workers in diagnosing and managing neonatal sepsis in resource-poor environments.

Neotree uses mobile technology to integrate diagnostic algorithms, real-time data collection, and decision support. The approach combines research, technology, and local healthcare practices to create a scalable, context-specific tool for neonatal care.

Key Findings

Improved Diagnostic Accuracy: The implementation of Neotree has shown significant improvements in the early detection and diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.
Increased Training and Capacity Building: Healthcare workers using Neotree have reported enhanced skills and confidence in managing neonatal cases.
Scalability Potential: The system has proven adaptable and scalable for broader use across other low-resource settings.

Partnership Impact

The partnership between UCL Grand Challenges, Neotree, and local healthcare facilities in Malawi and Zimbabwe has led to a decrease in neonatal mortality rates in pilot areas of Malawi and Zimbabwe.

By combining UCL's research expertise with on-the-ground knowledge from local health professionals, the collaboration has created a sustainable, digital platform. This has empowered healthcare workers with the tools and confidence to offer life-saving treatments. It has improved diagnostic accuracy and enhanced training for healthcare workers.

The success of Neotree exemplifies how cross-sector partnerships can leverage technology and research to create lasting societal impacts, improving health outcomes for the most vulnerable populations.

Reflections and next steps

The project team plans to scale the Neotree model to other countries and expand its functionalities to address additional health conditions affecting neonates.

The team is also exploring further partnerships to enhance data-sharing capabilities and improve predictive accuracy for other critical neonatal diseases.

> Visit Neotree

Partner with UCL Grand Challenges

UCL Grand Challenges is committed to interdisciplinary collaborations to tackle the world's most pressing societal issues. Contact the team to find out how you can get involved.

> Learn more about partnerships

The Neotree

Objective and approach:

Key Findings

Partnership Impact

Reflections and next steps

Partner with UCL Grand Challenges

Project Funding

Partners

People