Karlstad University is one of the participants in DigiH4A (Digital Health for All), an EU-funded project that will address systemic healthcare challenges on an international scale. The objective is to accelerate the digital transformation of healthcare systems and provide citizens with better access to cutting-edge digital health solutions.
Launched in October 2024 and funded by the European Union through the Interreg North Sea programme, the project gathers academic institutions, health authorities and innovation actors to drive the adoption of digital health solutions across the North Sea region.
"The aim of the three-year collaboration project is to improve healthcare and address key challenges within the region’s health systems by facilitating a widespread adoption of digital health solutions, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)," says project leader Erik Wästlund, professor of psychology at the Service Research Center (CTF), Karlstad University.
What is the role of Karlstad University in the project?
"The project includes three work packages that focus on reimbursement models, market access and cost-benefit analysis," says Erik Wästlund. "CTF will participate in all three work packages but will lead the package on cost-benefit analysis, where we will develop a model to describe and compare the costs and benefits of digital health innovations. As it stands today, the countries around the North Sea use several different models. The goal is to create a common model that can be used across borders and help guide healthcare decision-makers."
Critical need for innovative and cost-saving solutions in the region
With the North Sea region facing increased pressure from an ageing population and a rise in chronic diseases, the need for innovative, cost-saving healthcare solutions has never been more critical. Digital health solutions have the potential to make a big difference.
DigiH4A focuses on two main obstacles to integrating digital health solutions: establishing effective reimbursement pathways and building trust among healthcare providers and patients. To address these challenges, DigiH4A will collaborate with over 200 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to develop innovative reimbursement models and cost-benefit analysis methods.
The project will also create a strategic action plan to guide healthcare decision-makers, providers and payers in seamlessly integrating digital health solutions into existing healthcare systems. The aim is to enhance care delivery and improve patient outcomes by 2027.
About DigiH4A
DigiH4A (Digital Health for All) is an EU-funded project under the Interreg North Sea programme, committed to improving healthcare through digital health solutions. To accelerate the digital transformation of healthcare systems across the North Sea region, the DigiH4A project will develop innovative reimbursement pathways and cost-benefit analysis methods, collaborating with over 200 small and medium-sized enterprises. These solutions will empower healthcare providers and decision-makers to integrate digital health technologies, improving care delivery and patient outcomes at a systemic level by 2027.
- More information: /www.interregnorthsea.eu/digih4a
