The University Medical Center Essen is a good example of how digitization is advancing, as the Medical Director and experienced clinic manager Professor Jochen Werner are constantly driving the digitization process forward. Jochen Werner is, so to speak, the digitization mastermind at the Essen Hospital, as he also explains in an interview with „Apotheken-Umschau“. In his opinion, the corona pandemic clearly shows that Germany had too many digital deficits for a long time, which are now having a negative impact. The exchange of information was too slow and in some cases still paper rather than digital. In addition, the expert for digitization criticizes that nationwide communication has not yet reached everyone. This requires mandatory specifications and overcoming resistance because observing data protection guidelines must not be carried out on the backs of patients. However, this is associated with higher costs, as Werner points out. Furthermore, the hierarchical structure in clinics must be cracked so that all employees and patients are in the same boat. Essen is setting a good example. A separate electronic patient file (ePA) has already been introduced, as well as a digitalised central emergency room, which stands for rapid treatment and effective patient management. Video conferencing has been available in the hospital for some time now, and new types of telemedicine projects, including those of start-ups, are also openly encountered. Essen has also invested in app development so that the main building and the affiliated subsidiary clinics can exchange information because, in times of Covid-19 infections, an overview of the capacity of intensive care beds is also crucial. The Medical Director also explains that the clinic has established an Institute for AI in Medicine in order to take advantage of the benefits in diagnostics. However, this would also show the system its limitations. In summary, the professor points out that the advantages definitely outweigh the disadvantages. IT in hospitals leads to improved diagnostic measures with a lower error rate, but also to more individual and innovative therapies. The time windows created for medical staff and patients are larger, but all this also leads to higher costs. In addition, digitalization creates better working conditions, which also benefits the health and regeneration of patients.
