Scale-IT-up 2024 Abstracts

Area 1 - Scale-IT-up
Short Papers

Area 1 - Scale-IT-up

Short Papers
Paper Nr: 5
Title:

Harmonizing Innovation and Regulation: Swiss Health Insurance Navigates Digital Health Technologies for Enhanced Patient Engagement
Authors:

Estelle Pfitzer, Birte Jörn and Tobias Kowatsch
Abstract: We investigate the innovative domain of digital health technologies (DHTs) within the unique and highly regulated context of the Swiss health insurance system, focusing on the pragmatic approach adopted by Sanitas, a leading health insurance provider in Switzerland. Drawing on an insightful interaction with Birte Jörn, manager for innovation and venturing at Sanitas, the following position statement underlines the strategic integration and adoption of DHTs to enhance customer engagement, reinforce patient self-management, and, subsequently, mitigate healthcare and insurance service costs. Among barriers such as rigorous regulations and reimbursement limitations, insights collected from various DHT pilot programs unveil certain tendencies, like notable customer interest in DHTs oriented towards lifestyle, mental well-being, and chronic disease management.
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Paper Nr: 6
Title:

Advocating for Harnessing the Power of Ecosystems in Healthcare: The Case of an Ecosystem in the Realm of Parkinson’s Disease - A Position Paper
Authors:

Dennis Vetterling, Philippe Lucarelli and Anja Y. Bischof
Abstract: In the contemporary healthcare landscape, organizations largely operate on their own, potentially limiting comprehensive care for complex diseases. This position paper underscores the potential of utilizing the power of an ecosystem as a structure for value creation within the realm of Parkinsons̀ disease. We analyze the potential values that arise from utilizing an ecosystem for three entities, the organizations, the healthcare system and the patients. In so doing, we propose a first set of benefits, i.e., values, that arise subdivided into financial and non-financial values.
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Paper Nr: 7
Title:

Transforming NCD Business Models in Switzerland: CSS Insurance Perspective
Authors:

Odile-Florence Giger, Christopher Bensch and Tobias Kowatsch
Abstract: The worldwide incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is increasing, prompting exploration into technological advancements that present fresh prospects for treating and managing NCDs. Numerous well-established companies have been working in the field of NCD management, providing digital tools for the efficient management. Although there are many digital health companies nowadays, building them up at scale is difficult due to a heterogeneous, inefficient, and fragmented healthcare system. Therefore, we engaged in a conversation with Christopher Bensch, healthcare expert at CSS – one of Swiss’ largest health insurers – to understand better which business models may improve the management of NCDs. The insights are structured along the business model framework of the “Magic Triangle”. We found that the integration of healthcare providers is crucial when implementing the business model. Furthermore, new business models should be launched lean, pragmatic, and improved along the innovation process within the given regulatory rules rather than waiting for the regulatory environment to change.
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Paper Nr: 8
Title:

Reimagining Preventive Care and Digital Health: A Paradigm Shift in a Health Insurance’s Role
Authors:

Wasu Mekniran, Jan-Niklas Kramer and Tobias Kowatsch
Abstract: Amidst non-communicable diseases’ substantial health and economic burdens, health insurance companies and digital health technologies (DHTs) are increasingly crucial in enabling preventive care and minimizing global health expenditure. This position paper explores the perspective of an innovation manager of a Swiss health insurer. The interview transcript was analyzed using thematic analysis. The results highlight the importance of current regulations, the future role of health insurance companies, and the potential of DHTs to promote preventive care and business model innovation.
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Paper Nr: 9
Title:

What Needs to Change to Make Digital Health Successful? The Perspective of the Austrian Healthcare Provider Mavienext
Authors:

Panitda Huynh, Erich Kruschitz and Tobias Kowatsch
Abstract: Austria’s healthcare ecosystem, anchored in conventional operational paradigms, faces mounting pressure to evolve. The ingrained models, though resilient, are being challenged by the escalating healthcare demands of a diverse and ageing populace, rising costs, and emerging health adversities. In this nuanced context, we present insights from a discourse with the CEO of Mavie Next, an Austrian healthcare provider and a corporate start-up of the UNIQA Group, to explore the pivotal intersection of digital health technologies and systemic evolution. The primary objectives of this interview were to: (1) understand the current challenges faced by Austria’s healthcare system; and (2) identify collaborative strategies and data sharing practices that can optimize the use of DHTs. These objectives guided our research questions, focusing on how Mavie Next, with its innovative approach and cross-border aspirations, can serve as a model for integrating DHTs in healthcare systems globally. In this nuanced context, we present insights from an interview with Erich Kruschitz, CEO of Mavie Next, an established Austrian healthcare provider, to explore the pivotal intersection of digital health technologies and systemic evolution. OurThe discussion underscores the importance of data sharing, regular collaborative initiatives, and overcoming data availability challenges as foundational elements to harness the full potential of DHT in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by an aging population. This comprehensive exploration serves as a foundational resource for stakeholders, offering insights, evaluations, and prospective pathways to navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare amidst demographic and technological shifts. Mavie Next aspires to pioneer this cross-border transfer of innovation, echoing its ethos of extending beyond Austria with globally applicable solutions.
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Paper Nr: 10
Title:

Navigating Germany’s Digital Health Ecosystem: Insights from a Health Insurance Industry Expert
Authors:

Laura Bitomsky, Julian Hollender, Marcia Nißen and Tobias Kowatsch
Abstract: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 73% of the global mortality in 2017, with an estimated financial impact of up to US$ 47 trillion by 2030. This escalating prevalence poses a significant challenge to healthcare systems and insurers, particularly in the context of an aging population with multiple NCDs. Digital health technologies (DHTs) have emerged as a potential solution, offering scalability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. However, integrating DHTs into healthcare services remains a complex task. We conducted a semi-structured interview with an industry expert from Germany’s largest statutory health insurance group to explore this issue and derive first hypothesis for improvement. Results indicate seven key insights into Germany’s dynamic digital health ecosystem and offer critical reflections for all stakeholders, providing a foundation for further discussions and actions in this transformative field.
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Paper Nr: 11
Title:

Implications and Perceptions of Digital Health Technologies: A Multiple Case Study on the Payers’ Viewpoint
Authors:

Kai Gand, Hannes Schlieter, Elena T. Segarra and Andreea Garaiacu
Abstract: The study delves into the implications and perceptions of Digital Health Technologies (DHT) within the healthcare system. Among the many relevant stakeholders, the present study’s objective is to explore the perspective of health insurers particularly. On this, we have conducted a survey (1 face-to-face interview, 5 online questionnaires) for a multiple case study on lessons from European health insurance entities from 5 countries regarding usage scenarios of DHT. Recognized for their transformative potential, DHT promises to address demographic shifts, streamline payment processes, and enhance patient management, especially for chronic diseases. However, the survey participants still see challenges in terms of their long-term effectiveness, demographic and regulatory constraints. Countries like Germany have pioneered regulatory frameworks, but issues of trust and interoperability persist. The economic implications of DHT present both potential cost savings and financial burdens. Health insurers emerge as pivotal players, acting as gatekeepers for DHT quality and driving adoption. As the DHT landscape evolves, continuous evaluation, adaptation, and multi-stakeholder collaboration are paramount for harnessing their full potential.
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Paper Nr: 13
Title:

How the Health Insurance Industry Is Uniquely Positioned to Implement Digital Health Interventions and Preventative Care Measures
Authors:

Bea F. Frese
Abstract: Digital Health Interventions (DHIs) provide promising solutions for a variety of use cases, especially mobile DHIs as they leverage readily available technologies. Such solutions have enormous potential for preventative care measures through collecting and analysing data to provide personalized support at scale. This paper looks at one such DHI from the health insurance industry that seeks to engage people continuously with healthy lifestyle behaviours. Referencing learnings from Asian markets and industry professionals, this paper illustrates how health insurance companies are uniquely positioned to fulfil this potential based on their objectives, long-term outlook, and access to health data. It also elaborates on the required skillsets to build impactful DHIs, highlighting gaming theories and how they can be implemented in DHIs to engage users long-term. Further, the paper illustrates how the impact of these DHIs can be quantified through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in the short- and long-term for health insurance companies. Finally, the paper suggests how these learnings can inform future DHI approaches, including a need for flexible offerings, the integration of mini-DHIs, and the continuous evaluation based on KPIs, as well as relevant research directions.
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Paper Nr: 14
Title:

Unlocking the Potential of Digital Health Technologies: The Role of Health Insurance Companies in Shaping the Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
Authors:

Marcia Nißen, Raphael Beuter, Marek Rydzewski and Jeremias Pappert
Abstract: This position paper explores the transformative potential of digital health technologies (DHTs) in addressing non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) and raises the question of which role health insurance companies play in shaping a healthcare landscape to embrace DHTs. Drawing from a semi-structured interview with two experts from the second-largest health insurer in Germany and supported by public industry reports, newspaper articles, and legal texts, this paper discusses three key dimensions: First, this paper challenges the metaphor of DHTs as “digital pills”, emphasizing that the success of digital medicine in addressing NCDs depends on active patient engagement, long-term intervention adherence, and actual lifestyle changes in peoples’ everyday lives, echoing challenges of analog, traditional medicine. Second, we delve into the promises of DHTs in improving individual healthcare access and health equity through gender-specific, bias-free design. Lastly, the paper elaborates on how health insurance companies operate in their roles as non-profit-oriented (a) co-developers, (b) investors, and (c) catalysts of DHT innovations on a societal scale. In conclusion, this paper sheds light on some of the critical dynamics of shaping digital health ecosystems and health insurance’s profound impact in paving the way for DHTs.
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Paper Nr: 15
Title:

Aligning Strategies: How Digital Health Technologies Are Used by a Swiss Insurance Company to Foster a Sustainable Healthcare Landscape
Authors:

Alina Liebich, Livia Jacob and Tobias Kowatsch
Abstract: Escalating healthcare costs, as well as an outdated traditional healthcare landscape, are placing considerable strain on European healthcare systems, pushing society to re-evaluate current business models. Sustainable solutions require stakeholders to collaborate and innovate. For this Position Paper, we interviewed a representative of SWICA, one of Switzerland’s largest health insurance companies, to gain insight into their perspective and expectations regarding the upcoming challenges. The results show that SWICA has developed a portfolio of multiple digital health technologies to promote an integrated and preventive care approach in collaboration with new partners in the healthcare system.
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