By Dr. Christine Gall, Head of Healthcare Marketing
The COVID-19 pandemic spurred adoption of digital technologies around the world, but it also magnified gaps in care coverage and access to quality care for many in underserved areas. In May 2022, the International Data Corporation (IDC) European Healthcare Digital Executive Summit convened with more than 50 senior European healthcare executives to discuss how to standardize and scale digital innovation in European healthcare. Although European healthcare systems operate differently than in the U.S., there are also many similarities and common goals.
The primary focus of the Summit was improving patient care and safety through technology in a more efficient and effective manner, while keeping the care patient centric.
One overall strategy is the “digital front door” meaning that access to healthcare services can start anywhere and at any time. This resembles the concept of the online consumer marketplace. The decision to seek care is similar to decision-making regarding the purchase of goods and services. This process starts well before the actual transaction is made.