eHealth

The healthcare sector has been undergoing a fundamental transformation around the world in recent years and the health system is improving. The main benefits of digitising healthcare include improving prevention, diagnosis, treatment or monitoring of patients' healthcare and lifestyle. In addition, information is shared more effectively between physicians, medical procedures are shared, and communication is improved, which increases the overall quality of care. 

In the Czech Republic, the Act on the Computerization of Healthcare was adopted in 2021, on the basis of which the eHealth Portal is to be established from 2023. Patients and doctors will find an offer of eHealth services along with a web and mobile application. Importantly, the law does not introduce any centralized repository of medical records or data on the patient's health, but allows the safe transfer of medical documentation or its parts between health service providers or between the provider and the health insurance company. 

In connection with the coronavirus pandemic, the so-called telemedicine is also gaining in importance. This allows patients to consult their health with doctors online without having to leave their home, making the healthcare system much more efficient. Inspiration can be drawn from countries such as Denmark, Spain or the United Kingdom, which are setting trends in the field of eHealth.  

What are the barriers to the development of digital health? What impact has the COVID-19 pandemic had on eHealth? What are the prospects for digital healthcare in the future in the Czech Republic? How can the European Union support the development of digital health? So what is hindering the development of eHealth and the expected financial savings in healthcare?