Digitalisation and robotics: Saxony wants to learn from South Korea's health system

Sachsen’s health ministry has announced plans to visit South Korea to study how digitalization and robotics can help address challenges posed by an aging population and a shortage of healthcare professionals. State Minister Petra Köpping, representing the SPD party, is leading a delegation of officials, healthcare workers, and industry representatives to Seoul, where they will examine innovative approaches used in South Korea's healthcare system. The trip aims to identify solutions that could be adapted to Saxony’s specific needs. The delegation’s itinerary includes visits to hospitals and care facilities, with a focus on observing how robotic systems and digital tools are being integrated into medical practices. One key stop is the Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, which employs 77 service robots to assist with logistics, disinfection, and patient care. Since 2019, the hospital has also operated a digital control center that monitors patients continuously. Another destination is the Samsung Medical Center, recognized as a leader in “smart hospitals” through its paperless processes, automated logistics, and robot-assisted workflows. These examples highlight South Korea’s commitment to leveraging technology to ease staffing pressures and improve efficiency. Köpping emphasized that digital transformation is essential for ensuring a modern, efficient, and future-proof healthcare system in Saxony. She noted that the proportion of residents aged over 65 is expected to rise significantly in the coming years, while the shortage of qualified personnel continues to pose a major challenge. By studying South Korea’s strategies, Saxony hopes to find practical models that can be implemented locally. The minister also stressed the importance of building partnerships with South Korean institutions and companies during the visit, aiming to foster long-term collaborations and potential joint projects. The delegation will engage in discussions with local healthcare organizations, industry leaders, and government bodies. These meetings are intended to explore opportunities for knowledge exchange, technological cooperation, and investment in digital infrastructure. The planned interactions underscore Saxony’s interest in positioning itself as a hub for innovation in healthcare technology, particularly in areas such as cyber security, medical informatics, and robotics. South Korea’s approach to integrating advanced technologies into healthcare has been shaped by demographic shifts similar to those faced by many European countries. With a rapidly aging population and a shrinking workforce, the country has prioritized automation and digitalization to maintain the quality and accessibility of its services. Its experience in deploying smart hospital systems and robotic assistants offers valuable insights for regions facing comparable challenges. The visit comes amid growing global attention to the role of technology in addressing healthcare shortages. As more governments seek sustainable solutions, cross-border exchanges like this one become increasingly relevant. For Saxony, the trip represents both an opportunity to learn from international best practices and a strategic move to strengthen its position in the evolving healthcare landscape. The outcomes of these discussions could influence policy decisions and investment priorities in the region.