The State of Norwegian Digital Health

Norway has both a comprehensive IT-infrastructure and health care system. Practically all Norwegians have an internet connection as well as a smartphone, and the Norwegian health care system is ranked as one of the best in the world. For some reason though, Norway isn’t at the forefront of digital health innovation.

No Flair

Currently, the Norwegian digital health market is cornered by a few companies. They are comfortable with the status quo, ignoring the BYOD movement, as well as disregarding the pace at which digital health is evolving. Their users should wake up and demand a higher level of quality products. Unfortunately, health care workers are so starved of proper software, that they accept any improvements, no matter how slight or out of date they may be.

Government agencies are even worse: Experts philosophize about interop, and the ownership of data, without these discussions resulting in any practical solutions. In addition, the agencies somehow manage to spend several millions on developing superfluous apps, which never get downloaded.

Ripe for Disruption

The stage is set for the next generation of digital health companies. They won’t conform to old ideas and challenge the existing status quo. They are efficient, reflective, and innovative. They must be in order to become successful.

The Road Ahead

Discussions on standard adoption need to be open, focused and efficient. There should be a strict deadline for practical conclusions.

Private companies should be allowed to compete on an even playing field with government companies; e.g. competition from Fürst Medical has forced Stavanger University Hospital’s Clinical Chemistry department to finally digitize their workflow.

The government should continue to develop the IT-infrastructure, but also supply developer APIs for easy, and secure access to core functionalities; such as drug store data, connection to hospitals for lab data and treatment schedules, as well as secure digital communication with health care professionals. In addition, they should help diversify the digital health market by adapting the BYOD movement for health care, hosting developer conferences & hackathons, and promoting innovative digital solutions by third parties.