‘The future hospital’ was discussed throughout the summit, with participants agreeing that it will, over time, become smaller and more specialised, complemented by products and services which will allow patients to be treated remotely. Examples of regions moving towards this model – including Denmark – were presented. The efficiency of electronic patient record (EPR) deployment and handling health ICT management was also covered – patients and healthcare professionals will benefit from data to improve care delivery. However, it was made clear that the current healthcare system needs to be redesigned to include financial incentives, capitalise on innovation and help EPR implementation and deployment nationally and regionally.

Nicole Denjoy, COCIR Secretary General, said “COCIR is delighted to have brought together key stakeholders at our first eHealth summit. The broad range of participants and varied discussions demonstrated the event’s success. COCIR will continue to be the leading health ICT industry voice and work together with healthcare providers, patients, regulators and EU institutions.”