Why the political landscape makes local MP engagement essential for healthcare and medtech companies

Presented by Paul Gaffney and Daniel Laing at ‘The Future of MedTech – Innovating for Tomorrow’, a joint conference by the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) and AXREM, held on 13 May 2025 in Northampton.

At this year’s joint BHTA and AXREM conference, Paul Gaffney, Director of Tendo, and Daniel Laing, Senior Account Director at Tendo, delivered the second part of a compelling session titled ‘The Economic and Political Landscape’. The first part of the talk was delivered by Chris Corkan from Make UK that focused on the current economic landscape.

Tendo’s message was clear: for healthcare and medtech companies, building strong relationships with local MPs has never been more important.

Paul opened with a frank overview of the current political scene. As Labour nears the end of its first year in office, its standing is far from secure. Local election results revealed growing voter scepticism, particularly around delivery. While national issues like the NHS, immigration, and the cost of living dominate headlines, Paul argued that the political environment is increasingly fragmented. In this climate, politicians are under pressure to prove tangible results – especially in their own constituencies.

That’s where businesses can make a difference. Paul emphasised the power of demonstrating local economic and social value. MPs are far more likely to act on issues that affect their own constituencies. A local employer supporting NHS delivery, creating skilled jobs, or alleviating pressure on social care services becomes much more than a line in a policy briefing – it becomes part of a re-election campaign.

This approach is already being championed by the BHTA. Over the years, the association has facilitated numerous constituency visits from MPs to member sites, with a lasting impact.

Daniel picked up on this theme, likening the complex and shifting NHS landscape to a long walk through fog. As structures evolve and priorities shift, the government’s ability to respond swiftly is limited. That’s why, Daniel argued, industry engagement with Parliament must be focused and relevant. A logical, well-reasoned argument isn’t enough if it doesn’t align with a government priority.

He encouraged companies to bridge the gap between policy and practice by mapping local activity to national ambitions. Whether it’s reducing hospital discharge delays or supporting community care services, these real-world outcomes matter to MPs – and they have influence. If a healthcare firm’s local MP sits on a health committee or contributes to a select committee inquiry, a site visit or meaningful conversation could shape long-term understanding and advocacy.

In an increasingly crowded and competitive lobbying environment, Paul and Daniel’s message to BHTA members was: get local, get specific, and get involved. By turning national issues into local stories, healthcare and medtech companies can not only elevate their voices but help shape the future of the sector.