Data optimization is never finished, and we don’t talk enough about data governance in healthcare, are the two key points emphasised by Anne Forsyth, Director of Clinical Applications and Support at Women’s College Hospital in Canada.

Medications can cure or kill. According to WHO, the global cost associated with medication errors is 42 billion US dollars. Three European specialists from the Netherlands, UK and Belgium recently started a European project Asclepius, which advocated for the standardization of medication management across Europe and introduction of closed-loop medication management systems.

Eric Sutherland is Senior Health Economist and Digital Health Lead at OECD, who worked on the pan-Canadian health data strategy before his current role.  He discusses the upcoming implementation of the European Health Data Space, what needs to happen next, how do we involve the public, encourage trust in data sharing, and also build capacity for digital health implementation. We are moving into the era of new required data professionals, not just data analysts, but also data controllers, data stewards, and more. 

The GCC countries are focused on diversifying their economies and reducing dependence on oil revenues. This has led to a strong drive for innovation and interest in developing local capabilities and infrastructure. This is opening opportunities for startups in these areas, those who are willing to commit long-term.

In 2024, the main focus of the Digital Therapeutics Alliance is on reimbursement and education. Efforts are being made to standardize reimbursement processes and increase awareness among providers and patients.

Did you know that Belgium has had an idea for classifying and validating digital therapeutics since 2018? A clear framework was formed with all main stakeholders involved - from health insurance to the industry. So why are we not hearing more about DTx in Belgium?