Aussie nurse wins award for pioneering technology to combat needle phobia

An Australian nurse and entrepreneur has earned the ‘Innovation Leadership Award’ at the InnovationAus 2024 Awards for Excellence for pioneering a health technology aimed at easing needle phobia and anxiety.

Lauren Barber, the founder and CEO of NeedleCalm, expressed her gratitude for being celebrated as “an outstanding leader who drives innovation and makes significant contributions to their industry by maximising social impact.”

Barber established NeedleCalm in 2016 to address the widespread fear of needles. Inspired by her own experience with a needlestick injury and a passion for enhancing patient care, she developed desensitising adhesive pads designed to dull pain during injections. The medical device has since improved the healthcare experience of many Australians, particularly children.

“One in four Australians suffer from a fear of needles,” Barber said, underscoring the impact of her invention in helping alleviate patient discomfort.

The company also announced the appointment of highly respected Medical Director, Dr Matthew Cooper, as Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer. Barber highlighted, “Dr Cooper’s leadership will further strengthen NeedleCalm’s mission to decrease healthcare avoidance and overcome the challenges associated with needle phobia and anxiety. His expertise will play a crucial role in ensuring NeedleCalm continues to deliver the highest standards of medical best practice and patient safety.”

Dr Cooper praised Barber for her well-deserved recognition. “This award acknowledges her pioneering persistence and ingenuity on behalf of so many patients,” he said.

He further emphasied the significance of NeedleCalm’s work, saying “Too many Australians avoid necessary testing and care because of the fear and trauma they associate with needles. For parents and carers, removing the association of pain and fear for their child delivers a less fraught healthcare experience.

“NeedleCalm’s innovations stand to significantly help patients get the care they need and improve their lifelong healthcare journey.”

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