A dynamic workshop organised by the CleverHealth Network (CHN) ecosystem brought together a diverse group of experts to discuss how robotics can help tackle pressing challenges in healthcare. The aim of the event, held at Terkko Health Hub, was to explore new solutions for improving resource efficiency in healthcare and achieving better treatment outcomes. Participants included experts from member companies of the ecosystem, Helsinki University Hospital (HUS) and companies in the robotics sector.
The event was opened by Virpi Rauta, lead of the CHN ecosystem, who highlighted the critical needs within the healthcare sector, particularly in relation to resource shortages and improving operational efficiency. She emphasised that robotics is one of the CHN ecosystem’s new strategic themes, in relation to which impactful co-development projects are being planned.
The workshop was led by Cristina Andersson, an expert in robotics and artificial intelligence, who began by providing a brief overview of the current state of robotics in healthcare before guiding the participants through an intensive brainstorming session. A multidisciplinary group of experts delved deeper into the topic in small groups, identifying concrete solutions to identified needs within the hospital environment and, more broadly, across the healthcare sector.
Robotics offers a wide range of opportunities for the healthcare sector. Robots can ease the workload on staff and improve patient safety, for example by assisting with patient transfers, dispensing medication or maintaining hygiene. Autonomous disinfection robots can clean hospital rooms and communal areas, reducing the risk of infection. Social robots can provide companionship, remind patients to take their medication and monitor vital signs, thereby supporting the independent daily lives of older people in particular. Robots can also assist with imaging, sample collection and data analysis, which speeds up and improves the accuracy of diagnoses.
Two key perspectives emerged from the discussions: Firstly, robotics should be viewed as part of a broader suite of solutions based on data and artificial intelligence. Secondly, robots must be designed to work safely alongside people, supporting and facilitating the day-to-day lives of staff and patients.
Cristina Andersson pointed out: “We’re not here to discuss artificial intelligence as an abstract concept. We’re here to solve specific pain points and bottlenecks in the day-to-day running of hospitals – to deliver measurable benefits. When a robot saves time, reduces errors and pays for itself within a few months, that’s when real trust and value are created. Development work should start with building the market right from the outset, not only once the innovations are fully ready.”
The aim of the event was to build a shared understanding of the potential of robotics in healthcare. The workshop’s energetic atmosphere and the participants’ expertise led to a productive and inspiring exchange of ideas. In frank discussions between clinical, technical and financial experts, the group reviewed what has already been achieved in the field, where real needs are identified, and what is required to develop successful solutions – including technical, commercial, economic and social perspectives. Several ideas emerged and new solutions were tentatively conceptualised during the session itself. In addition, a group focusing on funding put forward concrete ideas for financing and commercialising the development of robotics in healthcare.
The consensus is clear: innovative robotic solutions can improve hospitals’ efficiency, productivity and the wellbeing of both staff and patients.
“We’re continuing to develop the ideas that emerged during the workshop. If you have any new ideas or would like to discuss these topics further, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the HUS CHN team,” encourages Virpi Rauta.
Interested? Please get in touch at chn@hus.fi
