Welcome to this course on Current Issues in Health Policy!

Buzzwords such as 'Big data', 'Digitization' and 'HealthTech' have become landmarks of our time, so that today we already see big markets evolving, offering a sheer exploding number of new information and communication technologies, sensors and devices. Also, from a policy makers’ standpoint, the necessity for the targeted utilization of innovative technology in healthcare has arisen, for which the European Commission has formulated an action plan to bring eHealth up to speed within the EU, and to shape a fertile regulatory environment.

What remains, however, is the question how big data, digitization and HealthTech may improve our lives, assist our society and strengthen our health systems? In other words, how can eHealth lead to better health for all of us?

Your goal for this course is to act as the coordinator of a European project initiative aimed at tackling some of the aspects outlined by the above described problem space. That is, you’ll be asked to develop, write and present a research proposal which clearly highlights how you, in synergy with partners, plan to use technology to help advance some of Europe’s health system challenges.

Sounds interesting, right? We'll talk about the rest in class. We're looking forward to seeing you there!

Best,
Martina, Nils & Stephan