the e-health market | Italy

1.1 Definition and scope of study

According to the World Health Organization, the term e-health refers to "the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) for health". E-Health includes:

• Health Information System or Hospital Information System: all solutions for the exchange of information between hospitals, doctors and patients,
• Telemedicine: includes various medical acts performed remotely;
• Tele-health: mainly concerns monitoring and prevention;
• Technological devices for patients or m-health (mobile applications, connected objects, etc.);
• Technological devices for suppliers;
• Technological devices for public and industrial operators.

The global e-health market is growing, the total amount of funds raised by start-ups worldwide continues to increase, in 2019 it amounted to $13.7 billion. The progressive interest and recognition of telemedicine, tele-health and especially m-health (mobile health) in Italy reflects a real revolution in the field of healthcare, marked by the transformation of medical practices and relationships between market players. The sector shows a high potential as suggested by the recent investments of about €1.4 billion and the 5% annual growth over the last two years. It is expected to be influenced by macro-economic factors affecting the national territory, such as a progressively longer life expectancy or attempts to reduce healthcare costs and expenses.