Benchmarking Sweden's Digitalization Transformation Strategy-Is It a Good Fit for the UAE?

Abstract

Background: The ongoing revolution in health care, driven by wearable technology, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things, is reshaping both health care operations and our daily lives. This digital transformation ensures broader access to health care options, fosters patient-centered care and affects both health care institutions and individuals. In Sweden, health care is undergoing a digital shift, with initiatives like personal health management, remote monitoring, and virtual care enhancing patient involvement. This article reviews Sweden's health care digital transformation and compares it with the United Arab Emirates (UAE's) initiatives to assess viability. Methods: Using systematic literature review methods, databases from 2011 to 2023 were searched, supplemented by reference lists. Results: Database searches identified 761 records. A total of 480 articles were screened on basis of title and abstract, yielding 184 that were assessed for eligibility, leading to 40 academic studies to be included and 12 grey literature. Conclusions: The findings highlight Sweden's success in empowering patients through enhanced connectivity with clinical teams, knowledge sharing, and care management. However, due to contextual differences, the UAE should not blindly replicate Sweden's strategy. In conclusion, Sweden's efforts have positively engaged patients in health care, but challenges such as emerging technologies, demographic shifts, and budget constraints persist. Proactive planning and adaptation are crucial, with lessons applicable to the UAE market. Establishing a clear regulatory framework for digital care is imperative for future resilience.

Keywords: e-health; health care; health information system; health information technology; quality of health care; systematic literature review; technology; telemedicine.