MOIC - host experience
Case Study: Medicines Optimisation Innovation Centre (MOIC) - host experience
MOIC’s participation in the Insight Exchange programme created valuable connections, raised awareness of its work, and opened doors for future collaboration. By tailoring activities to the participant’s goals, from strategic discussions with senior leaders to attending a high-profile health innovation event, MOIC provided a rich, focused experience that went beyond typical networking. The protected time, clear structure, and ongoing communication have established the basis for a lasting relationship with Momentum One Zero.
About MOIC
The Medicines Optimisation Innovation Centre (MOIC) was established by the Department of Health in 2015 as a regional centre to improve the use of medicines through research, service development, knowledge transfer, and collaboration. Building strategic partnerships and operating across healthcare, industry, and academia, MOIC is recognised locally, nationally, and internationally for innovative practice and influencing health policy.
Why MOIC Took Part
MOIC’s Lead, Anita Hogg, saw the Insight Exchange programme as an opportunity to:
Raise awareness of MOIC’s work across Northern Ireland.
Strengthen networks between healthcare, research, and other sectors.
Learn more about the activities and challenges facing other organisations.
Explore opportunities for collaboration that support regional research and innovation.
Programme Highlights
MOIC hosted Harshal Patil, Business Development Manager, Momentum One Zero, tailoring the experience to his learning goals. Activities included:
Introductory meeting – one-to-one discussion to share organisational backgrounds, agree objectives, and shape the programme.
Senior team session – online meeting with MOIC’s Director, Prof Mike Scott and Anita to discuss projects, challenges, and how MOIC’s work impacts healthcare in Northern Ireland.
High-profile event attendance – invitation to a North–South health innovation showcase event at Parliament Buildings, featuring Ministers, the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer, and sector leaders from across Ireland. This provided valuable networking opportunities and insight into cross-border collaboration.
Final review meeting – reflecting on outcomes, sharing resources, and agreeing to keep communication lines open.
Benefits and Impact
For MOIC, the programme:
Increased visibility across the research community.
Strengthened understanding of Momentum One Zero’s expertise, particularly in technology and AI, opening doors for future joint projects.
Built a trusted, ongoing connection with a new partner.
Offered a richer, more focused interaction than large networking events, thanks to dedicated, protected time.
Reflections
“It was much richer than just meeting at a networking event – the protected time meant real conversations, real connections, and potential for future collaboration.” – Anita Hogg
Advice for future hosts:
Have a clear structure – agree dates and agendas early to stay on track.
Tailor the exchange – shape discussions and activities around individual goals for maximum value.
Be clear on purpose – align expectations from the outset.
Protect the time – treat sessions as dedicated space for meaningful engagement.
Keep it flexible – maintain a light-touch approach but be open to exploring short placements or follow-on collaborations if deeper engagement would be beneficial.