Digitisation in healthcare: Why it is so crucial right now

The call for greater digitisation in healthcare is not new. Efforts to drive this transformation have been underway for years. Now, the Digital Act (DigiG) aims to accelerate the pace of digitisation. For research, the Health Data Utilisation Act (GDNG) has been introduced to facilitate the use of health data.

Enhanced patient care and safety

One of the primary arguments for digitisation in healthcare is the significant improvement in patient care. Electronic Health Records (EHR) enable quick and easy access to patient data, supporting more accurate diagnoses and personalised treatments. With instant access to comprehensive medical histories, doctors can make better-informed decisions, collaborate more effectively, and initiate treatments earlier—often improving patient outcomes. The insecure exchange of patient records via outdated methods like CDs or fax, which also poses challenges in terms of GDPR compliance, would become a thing of the past.

Efficiency and cost savings

Digitisation increases efficiency in healthcare. Automated processes and digital systems reduce administrative workloads and minimise errors associated with manual data entry. Telemedicine and digital appointment booking systems save time for both doctors and patients while reducing waiting times. These efficiency gains lead to significant cost savings, both in administrative functions and in direct patient care.

Addressing doctor shortages in rural areas

A specific issue that digitisation can help mitigate is the shortage of doctors, particularly in rural regions. According to a model calculation by the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KBV), the demand for medical services will rise moderately by 2030, while the supply of doctors is expected to decline, with shortages being most acute in rural areas. In Baden-Württemberg, for instance, there is already a shortage of approximately 960 general practitioners. Telemedicine and virtual consultations can partially bridge this gap by providing access to medical advice and treatment in remote areas. Patients can consult with doctors and receive diagnoses without lengthy travel. This is especially important for individuals with limited mobility or those living in areas with inadequate medical coverage. Digital platforms also allow access to specialised doctors who might otherwise be difficult to reach.

Advancing research and innovation

Digital technologies unlock new possibilities for medical research. Large volumes of health data can be collected and analysed to gain new insights into diseases and their treatments. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning can identify patterns within this data and predict disease progression. These innovations drive the development of new therapies and medications, contributing to the improvement of public health.

Data protection and security

While digitisation offers numerous advantages, safeguarding sensitive health data is of paramount importance. Modern security solutions and encryption technologies are essential to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of patient data. Robust data protection measures are crucial to building trust in digital health systems and preventing misuse. In recent months, there have been repeated cyberattacks on hospitals and other medical facilities. These incidents underscore both the vulnerabilities of the healthcare sector and the critical need to establish robust IT infrastructures. Cloud solutions, which are now permissible under the Digital Act, can help reduce maintenance efforts for healthcare providers, freeing up resources—provided that appropriate security measures are in place.

Conclusion

The digitisation of healthcare is not merely a trend but a necessity to meet the increasing demands on healthcare services. It improves the quality and efficiency of patient care, facilitates access to medical services, and fosters medical research and innovation. At the same time, stringent measures must be taken to protect sensitive data, ensuring security and maintaining patient trust. The ongoing digital transformation will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the way we experience and deliver healthcare in the future.

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