Technology instead of stagnation - medical technology as an answer to demographic change

Healthcare in Germany is facing profound change. The reasons for this are well known: The proportion of over-60s is rising rapidly, while medical professionals are becoming increasingly scarce. But how can a healthcare system function when demand permanently exceeds supply? At the VBKI Healthcare Lunch, Prof. Dr. Michael Kaschke - President of the Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft and long-standing CEO of the ZEISS Group - outlined a possible way forward: "We need to use technology strategically - not as a nice add-on, but as the backbone of future healthcare."

Kaschke made it clear from the outset that the triangular relationship between patients, medical providers (doctors and clinics) and payers (insurance companies) is out of balance - and will no longer function in its current form in 30 years' time. As a result, payers and patients are taking an increasingly active role in healthcare: Traditional treatment is increasingly taking a back seat, with prevention and efficiency taking center stage.

Kaschke sees enormous potential in medical technology - particularly in six key fields of technology, which he also presented using specific innovations: photonic technologies, functional imaging, miniaturization, ubiquitous sensor technology, big data & AI and robotic systems. Whether high-resolution retinal scans, OCT angiography, micro-endoscopes from the 3D printer or smart sensors in smartphones - the examples show: Many solutions have long been available, but their widespread use is faltering.

When asked why other countries are faster, Kaschke replied: "Because they talk about incentives, not just regulation." The question is not whether new technologies are useful - but why it is worthwhile for doctors, patients and institutions to use them. An ophthalmologist who can complete an operation in a few seconds instead of 15 minutes has a clear reason to adapt new technology. In Germany, on the other hand, such incentives are lacking - as is the courage to think more economically: "Those who become more efficient must not be punished for it."

Kaschke expressed concern about the capacity for innovation in Germany. Despite many good ideas, there is often a lack of venture capital - especially in SMEs, which form the backbone of medical technology. While large corporations such as Siemens are able to invest, smaller companies often fall short of their potential. More commitment is needed in the data-driven sector in particular. "We can't just talk about data protection - we also need to talk about data usage, especially for science."

A look abroad shows just how much catching up there is to do: in countries such as Canada, Australia and Singapore, clinical trials take place more quickly, with less bureaucracy and greater practical relevance. Germany, on the other hand, often gets in its own way with complicated processes.

The message of the afternoon was clear: tomorrow's supply cannot be secured without technology. But progress does not come about on its own - it needs clear goals and, above all, reliable incentives and the courage to question existing structures.