On the occasion of today’s World Health Day, a study from September 2024 shows that consumers in Germany are particularly open to digital health and care technologies by international comparison. This applies in particular to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to support patients in everyday life, in diagnostics, and in personalized healthcare.
\nThe survey, conducted by the international strategy consultancy Oliver Wyman and the industry organization gfu Consumer & Home Electronics with more than 4,200 participants in Germany, the USA, France, and Japan, shows that Germany leads internationally with an openness score of 1.6 (on a scale from -10 to +10). There is particularly strong acceptance of AI-supported diagnostics for rare diseases, personalized medication, and the use of digital health tools for everyday support.
\nThe study shows that digital health solutions are seen as an opportunity to reduce the growing pressure on the healthcare system. In Germany, 38% of respondents believe that AI and digital technologies can help alleviate the shortage of skilled workers in healthcare. A further 30% see them as a way to reduce costs.
\nAt the same time, according to the study, there are reservations: 52% of respondents in Germany emphasize that care should remain in the hands of empathetic people. Concerns about potential treatment errors caused by misunderstandings with algorithms (38%) as well as data protection risks are also widespread.
\nHealthcare professionals, people with chronic illnesses, and their relatives are particularly open to digital health and care technologies. Technological innovations for prenatal diagnostics or psychological support are also increasingly being accepted.
\n“Digitalization in healthcare is a balance between technology and human contact. Consumers expect innovative yet trustworthy and user-friendly solutions that create real added value,” explains Dr. Sara Warneke, Managing Director of gfu Consumer & Home Electronics.
\nNot only due to pandemics, but every year—usually at the beginning of a new year—health topics traditionally come into focus. People often set personal health goals at that time and resolve to reduce stress, exercise more, and eat more healthily. Digital health products such as fitness trackers or AI-based health analyses could help achieve these goals sustainably and support a healthy lifestyle in the long term.
\n“The results show that the market for digital health solutions continues to hold great potential. However, it is crucial that providers take consumers’ skepticism seriously and align their technologies with their needs,” Dr. Warneke further emphasizes.
\nWorld Health Day underscores the growing importance of digital technologies in medical care. While AI and robotics have the potential to make the healthcare system more efficient and accessible, the challenge remains to bring humanity and technology into harmony. Dialogue between manufacturers, health experts, and consumers therefore remains essential in order to successfully integrate innovative solutions into everyday life.
\n