During the event, DIGITAL SME gathered representatives from European and international institutions, SMEs, patient organisations, and innovation intermediaries to discuss the key policies and actions for steering the digital transformation of the healthcare sector.

The first panel discussion revolved around a reflection on how a country’s readiness for the digital transformation of its healthcare system depends on strong health data governance. This panel also explored how data-driven digital technologies can revolutionize healthcare services, discussing the policy framework, opportunities, and challenges for SMEs to innovate and contribute to the sustainability of health systems.

This discussion was followed by a session dedicated to the European SMEs that are developing solutions for improving the well-being of citizens and patients while showcasing European excellencies.

e-Health in Europe is projected to grow by 7.98% (2023-2027) resulting in a market volume of 18 billion euros in 2027. The digital transformation of the health sector will benefit people, healthcare systems and the economy. Digital technologies such as 5G, AI, Virtual Reality, Big Data and supercomputing offer new opportunities to transform the way citizens and patients receive health and care services.

The application of digital technologies and services enables the revolution of personalised medicine and patient-centric healthcare. Participating in the digital health sector opens immense opportunities for SMEs to offer their innovative digital solutions and contribute to more efficient and resilient health systems in Europe.

DIGITAL SME is launching its new Focus Group on e-Health, a community that brings together SMEs providing innovating solutions for health systems, research institutions and public sector bodies. This collaboration will allow SMEs to develop digital solutions to address the challenges in the healthcare system and benefit from a full range of services: information on funding opportunities, discussions on technology-specific topics, networking, and matchmaking.