Ten simple rules for coordinating a large digital health project: Perspectives from EU and implications for global...

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Biomedical Research
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Telemedicine

Background:

• Coordinating large-scale digital health projects involves complex scientific, administrative, and interpersonal challenges.
• International collaborations in healthcare and IT present unique hurdles due to diverse partners and working practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide practical guidance for successful coordination of multi-partner biomedical research projects.
• To share lessons learned from leading the CAPABLE European Horizon 2020 project.

Main Methods:

• Drawing upon experience from a European Horizon 2020 project (CAPABLE) focused on AI and telemedicine for cancer patients.
• Developing ten practical rules for navigating challenges in large-scale digital health initiatives.

Main Results:

• Identification of key challenges in multi-partner biomedical research, including consortium building, timeline management, regulatory compliance, and cultural alignment.
• Strategies for ensuring long-term impact through effective dissemination and exploitation of research outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Successful coordination of international digital health projects hinges on a blend of scientific leadership, administrative efficiency, and interpersonal sensitivity.
• The presented rules aim to enhance the likelihood of success for future large-scale digital health initiatives.