Digitalization in the health sector : challenges and perspectives

Digitalization in the health sector that started with electronically supported data and information management and now moved to the management of processes and the implementation of procedures, including work previously done by health professionals (e.g. in the area of diagnostic screening), has helped us living longer and leading safer, healthier, and more productive lives. However, a purposeful approach is needed to strengthen the impact of digital solutions on improved access to quality health care while controlling for risks related to the privacy of health-related data and the use of tools and instruments that lack evidence for their clinical effectiveness and economic efficiency.