Improving personalised health systems

PHSs are an innovation designed to provide continuous, quality-controlled personalised health services. The project 'Personal health systems foresight' (PHS FORESIGHT) explored PHS research, innovation and policy areas to attain a deeper understanding of the mismatches between the potential of and need for PHS. 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 looked at the sources and initiatives of PHS research in Europe and identified issues that may drive or hinder its development. Researchers explored databases of Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) and other projects, as well as and national and non-governmental activities. They also looked at case studies, research studies and projects, and patents to get a sense of the PHSs network. From 2008 to 2013, 67 EU-funded projects addressed PHS issues. Most of the research was conducted by universities, research organisations and companies.

PHS FORESIGHT found that many PHS pilots have been conducted on PHSs, but lack of coordination has resulted in a fragmented PHS landscape. PHSs are complex and involve interplay among people, organisations and technology. For PHSs to be successful, systems of collaboration between the recipients of care, caregivers and other stakeholders must be established. Also needed is more than just technological solutions, but also a multi-stakeholder process of service system design.

Moving forward, researchers aim to develop a strategic plan for Europe. The plan will specify priorities and identify trade-offs as a result of choices made. The final report will highlight existing gaps and mismatches in the current PHS structure, emerging needs and issues, and their relevance for Europe.