Unpredicted changes and happenings around the world lead to the reshaping of healthcare through advancements in technological progress and digitalisation. The second edition of HOLATAM bridges borders, uniting diverse perspectives to harness the influence of technology for more accessible, efficient, and patient-centred care worldwide.
Digitalisation and its Impact on the Healthcare Sector
The health of the global population has experienced substantial setbacks due to the recent pandemic. However, progress in areas like digital transformation promises the potential for further advancements. Digitalisation is the process of converting information, tasks, processes, and services into a digital format. It greatly impacts all aspects of life, and almost all industries are affected by it. One example from the healthcare industry is that of telemedicine, where patients can consult with healthcare professionals remotely. This has improved the access to healthcare, especially in remote and underserved areas, which was particularly valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic. While telemedicine had already been developing before the pandemic, its evolution was massively accelerated during this time, leading to a global telemedicine market value of more than USD 224 billion in 2022, according to globalhealthintelligence. By 2027, they expect the sector to be worth USD 400 billion, almost doubling its value within 5 years.
HOLATAM 24 will focus on the healthcare sector as it has been revolutionised by the integration of technology. The accessibility to electronic health records, telemedicine, and automated treatment has streamlined patient care as well as increased the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans.
We are committed to examining how digitalisation influences practices like operating tools and education in the healthcare sector, and what effects the increased efficiency has on patients and personnel. During the pandemic, a range of new challenges emerged, like delivery bottlenecks, which needed to be addressed quickly. The implementation of automation and three-dimensional printing of new devices for patient care have greatly contributed to a fast adaption to these new circumstances. While we will explore how health-related services were notably affected by digitalisation, we are also interested in the other remarkable impact digitalisation had: the opportunity for a whole industry to promote the following of a healthier lifestyle.
Opportunities for Argentina, Brazil, and Switzerland
Latin America – with its 650 million inhabitants – has a significant number of people seeking health services as well as a healthier lifestyle.
Especially in Brazil and Argentina, advancements such as remote patient monitoring and health apps are changing the way healthcare is provided and accessed. According to McKinsey, the digital health market in Latin America is expected to grow, which creates a huge potential for innovations.
Argentina is well known for its high-quality medical education system. According to the WHO, the country's expenditure on healthcare as a percentage of GDP was 10% in 2020. Nevertheless, as stated by the World Bank, Argentina is facing challenges and inefficiencies in providing equal-quality services all across the country. Collaborating with Swiss partners might help Argentina to solve this problem.
Switzerland in turn can benefit from collaborating with Argentina and Brazil, especially in the research and development sector. While Switzerland offers strong research and innovation capabilities, Argentina and Brazil possess great expertise in specific health challenges. Combining these strengths can lead to the development of cutting-edge solutions. Furthermore, by strengthening the relationship with Latin America in general, Switzerland can also gain access to a broad customer base and profit from entering an emerging market.
Why should you be interested in HOLATAM?
Besides being able to broaden your knowledge of digitalisation with a special focus on healthcare in three different economies, you also have the opportunity to get insights into best practices in the three different countries and apply your previously acquired theoretical knowledge. You will be able to compare cultural differences and similarities and engage with a variety of people. Our seminars in Switzerland and Latin America offer the unique chance to have intriguing conversations with influential companies, which can also help you to improve your potential career opportunities. In addition, you can benefit from 5 ECTS points* to get one step ahead on your academic journey. Join us on this incredible expedition to learn more about the digitalisation in the healthcare industry.
Apply now to be part of our delegation! For more information, visit our website and social media channels where we will keep you updated.
The realisation of this unique project is impossible without the valuable support of our partners. With their help, we will create an educational, inspiring and exciting programme, allowing for much reflection and exchange of diverse expertise. If you are interested in becoming a partner and benefitting from the exceptional collaboration with our talent pool, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We are looking forward to an exciting adventure and hope that you will be a part of it as well!
Your HOLATAM 24 Team
*School of Business: 5 ECTS points (BOEK/IM): Integration Module; all other: subject to agreement with Programme Head Applicants from other FHNW Schools: 5 ECTS points; compensation to be agreed upon with the Head of Programme.