npj Digital Medicine (Jan 2024)

Implementation of cloud computing in the German healthcare system

  • M. Putzier,
  • T. Khakzad,
  • M. Dreischarf,
  • S. Thun,
  • F. Trautwein,
  • N. Taheri

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-024-01000-3
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 7, no. 1
pp. 1 – 6

Abstract

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Abstract With the advent of artificial intelligence and Big Data - projects, the necessity for a transition from analog medicine to modern-day solutions such as cloud computing becomes unavoidable. Even though this need is now common knowledge, the process is not always easy to start. Legislative changes, for example at the level of the European Union, are helping the respective healthcare systems to take the necessary steps. This article provides an overview of how a German university hospital is dealing with European data protection laws on the integration of cloud computing into everyday clinical practice. By describing our model approach, we aim to identify opportunities and possible pitfalls to sustainably influence digitization in Germany.