Western Europe, Healthcare Sector: The Future of Patient Smart Cards

Smart cards have the potential to be key elements for secure access and transmission of critical patient data. However they are not an end in themselves but rather part of a wider system. Given that is not feasible to store significant quantities of health data on cards, it is necessary to create an electronic patient record system where data can be stored, updated in a complete and timely manner, and made accessible.

In this study IDC analyzes the latest trends in the usage of smart cards in the healthcare sector in Western Europe. The document provides an analysis of the role of smart cards in the ehealth transformation and the business models that are emerging for the implementation and management of smart cards. Examples from various Western European countries are provided both in terms of existing good practices and in terms of future investment plans. Finally a few strategic options are highlighted to suggest a viable go-to-market approach to IT vendors and to advise end users on the possible technology selection and implementation strategy.

"IT vendor and healthcare organizations have to collaborate to develop integrated systems in order to benefit from enhanced patient mobility, reduced adverse events and, monitored healthcare costs," said Massimiliano Claps, program manager, Public Sector, and Silvia Piai, research analyst, Public Sector, IDC European Vertical Markets.