'Evidence lacking' for mental health monitoring tech

An ongoing inquiry into the deaths of 2,000 mental health patients in Essex is raising alarms about the technology used in hospital wards. The Lampard Inquiry heard testimony from University of Oxford academics who reviewed 45 studies supporting the use of Oxevision. Their analysis found that this research lacks strong independent evidence for patient safety, acceptability, or cost effectiveness.

Oxevision uses infrared sensors and cameras to monitor pulse and breathing rates. Currently, it is deployed across 40 percent of NHS mental health trusts. LIO Health, the provider, maintains that the technology plays a critical role in supporting safer care and notes that it has assisted staff in 1,453 safety incidents over four years. However, critics argue these internal metrics do not substitute for rigorous, independent study.

The findings have drawn sharp criticism from groups like Stop Oxevision, which has spent years campaigning against its rollout. Nina Ali, a partner at Hodge Jones & Allen, noted that the expert testimony confirms the lack of clear evidence that these tools actually improve care. The inquiry chair, Baroness Lampard, is expected to review these matters before potentially issuing interim recommendations later this year.

As the inquiry continues until 2027, the focus remains on the standards required for technology deployed in sensitive clinical environments. The debate highlights the tension between adopting new digital monitoring tools and the necessity for verified clinical outcomes before widespread implementation. The Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust has stated that it awaits the inquiry's final recommendations to inform future improvements in its care processes.