Digital Health Innovation in Greece, from academia to market

Abstract

Greece’s healthcare system is at a turning point, needing to update outdated systems while building on its long research tradition and growing software industry. In this thesis, I explore the various challenges that hinder digital transformation in Greek hospitals, from fragmented IT infrastructures and poor interoperability to ad hoc procurement methods and tight budgets. By examining international best practices from countries like Denmark, Estonia, Israel, and Chile, as well as insights from institutions such as Stanford Health Care and Karolinska University Hospital, I identify critical factors that contribute to successful digital health adoption, including strong leadership, unified standards, and continuous training. Based on these findings, I propose a comprehensive framework to steer Greece’s digital health strategy. The framework highlights the need for agile procurement processes, cloud-based infrastructures that adhere to HL7 FHIR and OMOP standards, pilot projects in dedicated “lighthouse” hospitals, and a national digital health authority to coordinate policy and funding. It also emphasizes engaging local SMEs, attracting venture capital, and creating opportunities that bring Greeks back to work in Greece by leveraging their expertise and resources. Ultimately, the thesis shows that by bridging technical, organizational, and regulatory gaps, Greece can modernize its hospitals cost-effectively and build a sustainable platform for digital health innovations on the global stage.