The Added Value of Real-World Data in the Digital Health Ecosystem

Abstract

Healthcare is undergoing a profound digital transformation globally. The integration of digital technologies across healthcare is reshaping patient care and administrative processes. This digital transformation refers to the adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHRs), telehealth and telemedicine services, artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Real-World Data (RWD) and other emerging technologies to streamline operations, improve decision-making, and enhance patient management and outcomes. RWD refers to the information collected from sources other than traditional clinical trials, providing insights of patient habits, routines and outcomes. In this chapter, the authors explain the added value of incorporating RWD in decision-making, patient care, resource allocation, research and development of new treatments and medications, public health and personalized medicine and examine the specific challenges associated with its implementation in the Greek healthcare system.