Where Healthcare Meets Connection: Reflections on “The Digital Revolution of Healthcare”
One week ago, we hosted the themed event “The Digital Revolution of Healthcare” — a day defined by inspiring encounters, lively exchange, and a strong spirit of collaboration across sectors and perspectives.
Organized in cooperation with Carl-Schurz-Haus, bwcon, and the City of Freiburg, the event brought together an international audience of experts from healthcare, research, and industry, alongside students eager to engage with the future of digital medicine.
A special highlight of the day was the keynote by our Board member Anna Maria Braun, CEO of B. Braun SE, who set the tone with a compelling perspective on technology as a driver for more accessible, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare.
The subsequent panels deepened the conversation:
Panel 1: Innovation & the International Market
This panel explored how new business models, AI-driven solutions, and cross-border collaboration are reshaping healthcare systems worldwide. Contributions came from:
* Nada Abedin von Beust (AIxMedical / University Medicine Frankfurt)
* Fanny Giannou (Alithea Bio UG)
* Frederik Wenz (University Medical Center Freiburg)
Panel 2: The Human Perspective – Patient & Consumer
Focusing on ethics, patient experience, and human-centered innovation, this panel highlighted the importance of aligning technological progress with societal needs. Speakers included:
* Jonathan Garfinkel (Author & patient advocate)
* Philipp Kellmeyer (University Medical Center Freiburg, Human-Technology Interaction)
* Lilia Sprich (Pfizer Manufacturing Freiburg)
* Laura Wiebelitz (Bosch Health Campus)
Both panels were thoughtfully moderated by Lisa Tschalenko, whose approach created space for honest dialogue and meaningful exchange.
Throughout the day, students participated in talks and discussion formats, engaging directly with experts and gaining diverse insights into the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation in healthcare — from AI in diagnostics and therapy to questions of ethics, responsibility, and patient empowerment.
What made the event particularly impactful was not only the content on stage, but the atmosphere beyond it: a vibrant ecosystem of conversations, new connections, and shared curiosity. The event underscored how innovation in healthcare emerges where technology, human insight, and international collaboration meet.
We thank all panelists, partners, organizers, and guests for their contributions to this inspiring day — and look forward to continuing the conversations it has sparked.
