News stories from 2026

Pioneering double lung transplant gives patient new lease of life
Joseph McConnell is sharing his extraordinary story to encourage more people to register as organ donors.

New research facility opens at Good Hope Hospital
A new research facility at Good Hope Hospital is now open to patients. Located on the former CU27 ward, it provides dedicated space for interventional research, giving more of our patients the opportunity to take part in clinical trials.

UHB launches Midlands first dedicated clinic for rare genetic sight loss condition
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB) has launched a dedicated clinic for people with Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), a rare inherited condition that can cause severe sight loss and blindness.

Hat-trick of wins puts UHB at the forefront of patient safety
UHB enjoyed a night to remember at the HSJ Patient Safety Awards, taking home three awards and a highly commended accolade in recognition of its outstanding work to make care safer for patients.

New clinical investigation explores more inclusive blood oxygen monitoring
A clinical investigation at University Hospitals Birmingham (UHB) is exploring whether innovative ear-based technology could help improve the accuracy of blood oxygen measurements across different skin tones.

Birmingham integral to rolling out rapid genomic testing for brain tumours
A world-first NHS pilot of a rapid genomic test that allows doctors to diagnose what type of brain tumour a patient has in up to 24 hours is being expanded across England, with support from a collaboration of teams across Birmingham.