Biomedical informatics in Switzerland: need for action

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Informatics
• Health Informatics
• Clinical Informatics

Background:

• Biomedical informatics (BMI) is a broad scientific field encompassing various domains.
• Clinical informatics is a recognized medical subspecialty in many OECD countries.
• BMI is well-established in most OECD nations regarding education, funding, and professional integration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the marginal recognition of BMI in Switzerland.
• To emphasize the growing need for BMI capacity-building in Switzerland.
• To contextualize the importance of BMI in light of recent healthcare changes.

Main Methods:

• Review of the current status of BMI in Switzerland.
• Analysis of international standards and practices in BMI.
• Identification of key drivers for BMI development in Switzerland.

Main Results:

• BMI is marginally recognized in Switzerland compared to other OECD countries.
• Switzerland faces a growing need for BMI expertise.
• Recent legislative and societal changes necessitate increased BMI capacity.

Conclusions:

• Switzerland must strengthen its Biomedical Informatics capacity.
• Enhanced BMI education and research are essential for Switzerland's future healthcare.
• Addressing BMI needs will support the effective implementation of digital health initiatives.