Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the healthcare sector by enhancing diagnostics, personalizing treatment plans, streamlining operations and reducing costs. However, the uptake of this technology needs to align with the ethical and accessibility requirements of both patients and medical staff. This webinar, organised in collaboration with the Joint Focus Group on Artificial Intelligence and the DIGITAL SME Focus Group on e-Health, explored how both patients and medical staff can benefit from the adoption of AI solutions and why SMEs should have a central role in this transformation.

The main discussion revolved around the panel “Innovative, SME-driven and inclusive AI uptake in the healthcare sector”. This section aimed to explore the benefits but also the concerns originating from the adoption of AI solutions and how European SMEs can support an ethical digital transformation of the sector.

Innovative SMEs in the digital field are essential to drive this digitalisation process, especially by offering tailored solutions at the local or regional level. However, it is necessary to strengthen the dialogue between them and the main actors in the health ecosystem for the benefit of the whole sector, citizens included. As the medical staff is on the front line in employing these new technologies, their view on the topic is essential and co-design of technology with healthcare professionals should be further encouraged.

This event was supported by SHIFT-HUB, an EU-funded project that is creating a wide community to create a bridge between SMEs active in the digital sector, private and public healthcare organisations, innovation intermediaries and patients. The event was an opportunity to learn more about the business, acceleration and funding opportunities that are being launched!

Slides

EIT Transformative Health Instrument Call 2025