Six-figure investment for Manchester software firm led by former A&E doctor

The Manchester doctor behind new software that could slash A&E waiting times has secured six-figure funding.

Lanre Olaitan’s firm, MedCircuit, received £153k from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF) to develop its digital offering and run trials across a number of UK hospitals.

MedCircuit’s software allows patients to check into A&E using an iPad and answer questions about their condition.

The company said it reduces the time doctors spend taking notes by providing them with information ahead of assessment, speeding up consultations and allowing patients to move through A&E more quickly.

The investment was secured from NPIF – Mercia Equity Finance, run by Mercia Fund Managers.

It follows a £50k grant from Innovate UK and an £80k investment from the Oxford Innovation Opportunity Network.

Jonny Sharp, investment manager at Mercia Fund Managers, said: “As a former A&E doctor, Lanre fully understands the hospital environment and patients’ clinical needs.

“He spotted the potential to improve efficiency and allow patients to be referred more quickly to the right department.”

He continued: “In just a short space of time and with limited resources, he has succeeded in delivering a fully functioning product ready for hospital trials.

“This funding round will allow Lanre to further develop the software and to demonstrate its effectiveness by piloting it in multiple trial locations.”

Prof. Adam Beaumont, founder and CEO of NorthInvest, which advised on the investment, commented: “I’m a big believer in pan-Northern initiatives. The alignment between NorthInvest, Mercia and the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund is strong and we share the same vision to drive growth from the ground-up, by investing in and building the businesses of tomorrow across the Northern Powerhouse.”

Law firm CMS provided legal advice to Mercia on the investment. London-based William Grace Law advised MedCircuit.