Developing next-generation personalised health systems
PHSs are an innovation designed to provide continuous, quality-controlled personalised health services. The PHS FORESIGHT (Personal health systems foresight) project explored PHS research, innovation and policy areas to attain a deeper understanding of the mismatches between the potential of and need for PHSs. For the purposes of this project, PHSs were defined as wearable or in-body devices that monitor and communicate physiological and health data; intelligent processing that combines biomedical and environmental information; and actions based on information acquired from PHSs. The project considered sources and initiatives of PHS research in Europe and identified issues that may drive or hinder its development. Researchers provided an overview of the contributions of the newly established PHS FORESIGHT online community. This includes joint preparation and evaluation of visions on PHS futures and exploration of visions and prospects to produce breakthrough innovations. Project partners carried out community engagement and created synergies through various workshops, seminars and conferences. They also set up an interactive platform to launch a structured and systematic online consultation process. Two workshops were held on scenarios for PHS development. They examined ways PHSs can be used in different health situations. A success scenario was also developed that examines future prospects for the development and function of PHSs in Europe over the next two decades. Lastly, the team delivered a strategic plan for Europe. It identifies critical issues that may guide or impede PHS development and integration into public health care systems, and maps current initiatives that impact PHSs. The report also proposes strategies and actions for establishing priorities and a basis for further cooperation. PHS FORESIGHT helped to capitalise on the potential of PHSs by clarifying joint visions for health system changes and formulating action plans to achieve them. This will ultimately lead to patient empowerment and more healthy lifestyles.
Keywords
Personalised health systems, health services, health care, patient empowerment
