Healthcare business proves a pandemic pivot can be profitable and sustainable

A Newcastle-based healthcare business has experienced a record year that has seen its workforce double and its revenues soar.

Specialising in occupational health and staff wellbeing, NPH Group has doubled its workforce in the past 12 months taking its headcount to 40 and has recently moved from Dobson House, Gosforth to Balliol Business Park, Newcastle, gaining an extra 500 sq.ft. to facilitate a purpose-built clinic and head office and to support its recruitment drive.

In addition, it has increased its turnover from £1m in 2019 to £7m in 2021, largely thanks to strategic partnerships plus a pivot into Covid-19 testing to support the travel industry’s recovery.

Mark Philpott, CEO at NPH Group, said: “The travel industry has been hit particularly hard due to Covid and we wanted to help get it back on track. Thanks to a joint venture with BHA Medical plus partnerships with MDNA Life Sciences, and Optalitix, we were able to provide a robust and convenient Covid-19 testing model. As a reputable, government approved healthcare provider, we’ve been proud to support a range of organisations through the pandemic, keeping business and travellers moving.

“Our loyal team forged fantastic relationships within the travel industry and we have now supplied solutions to companies including Virgin Voyages, Newcastle International Airport and Leeds Bradford Airport, helping the travel industry get back on its feet during this tumultuous time.

“We’ve also seen demand for our core occupational health services and recently appointed Nick Downing as our director of operations and transformation, along with a compliance officer, a business systems administrator, and a finance assistant.

“We are looking to hire more occupational health nurses, technicians and an occupational health physician, as well as other business roles, however, there is an acute shortage of qualified and experienced health professionals within the discipline and we know that this has been compounded by the pandemic.

“To combat this, we are continuing our work with BHA Medical and are in the process of developing access to online professional support and healthcare consultations enabling people to work remotely, if needed.”

NPH Group enlisted the help of Absolute Commercial Interiors to fit out its state-of-the-art facility. The new, accessible ground floor clinic boasts private free parking for clients, seven spacious, fully equipped consultation rooms, a hearing booth room, counselling and therapy rooms, plus its air purification system traps 99.97% of airborne bacteria and viruses.

The office is open plan in its design with private rooms for virtual and face to face meetings.

Mark Philpott added: “The wellbeing of our staff and clients has always been a priority and the new facility provides a safe and welcoming space.

“The team can cycle to work and take advantage of the dedicated bike lockup, take a stroll in the garden area or access the gym across the road. Calming meditation spaces have also been created within the facility and staff are encouraged to find time to take a break and unwind in the purpose-built starlit rooms – ultimately protecting and supporting mental health in the workplace.

“The move to our new home is the cherry on the cake after a fantastic 18 months and I am very much looking forward to what the future holds for NPH Group and continuing to support our clients so they can access the very best healthcare solutions in a way that suits them and their customers.”