Thuringia is digitizing the healthcare sector

Whether it's more precise diagnostic tools or the optimization of hospital processes – the potential applications of AI in medicine are diverse. In Thuringia, companies and research institutions have specialized in developing and implementing customized digital solutions for the healthcare sector. Furthermore, Thuringian hospitals are increasingly relying on AI-supported solutions to improve patient care and operational efficiency. 

The InnoLOG “ICT meets Healthcare” event at the Technology and Innovation Park (TIP) Jena offered an excellent opportunity to experience the latest digital innovations in healthcare firsthand. Organized by ThCM, the event brought together leading players at the forefront of digital transformation in healthcare in Thuringia. In the following sections, we present some of the most exciting companies and initiatives and their innovative technologies.

1. Future-oriented ICT innovations - Thuringian companies for the healthcare sector

Redwave Medical: Innovative diagnostics for cardiovascular health

Redwave Medical, a Jena-based company founded in 2017, uses AI to improve the early detection of diseases. Its AI-powered algorithms provide innovative solutions for the medically accurate determination of health parameters such as blood pressure, arterial function, and cardiac output. In October 2022, the company received the KfW Award Thuringia, underscoring its innovative strength and significance in the medical field.

DeepEn GmbH: Highly innovative holographic endoscopy technology

Founded in Jena in 2024, the startup DeepEn GmbH has developed a groundbreaking endoscope technology. Using a holographic modulator that precisely shapes light, the company enables the development of fine, high-resolution endoscopes, particularly suitable for examining delicate organs. DeepEn's new ultra-thin microendoscopes allow for deep insights into the brain and other organs with unprecedented resolution and minimal invasiveness. Digital methods transform the data into a visible image for the user. Having won the special prize for young companies at the 2024 Thuringian Innovation Award and secured seven-figure seed funding in 2025, the company is poised to bring its vision of high-precision, minimally invasive endoscopes to market by the end of 2025. 

Bright Giant: AI-powered mass spectrometry for metabolic analysis
Bright Giant GmbH optimizes the analysis of metabolic processes using AI-supported mass spectrometry. Their innovative solutions enable more precise and faster analysis of metabolic changes, driving the development of new diagnostic tools and therapeutic approaches in medicine.

Quantifisens: Quantum technology meets measurement technology

QUANTIFISENS is a research consortium specializing in the development of innovative fiber optic sensor solutions. Using state-of-the-art quantum technology and advanced measurement techniques, the project aims to create highly precise, minimally invasive diagnostic solutions. These technologies, which are particularly relevant in precision medicine and endoscopy, enable improved patient care through detailed, radiation-free diagnoses. The project is supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research with funding of approximately twelve million euros.

2. AI in Thuringian hospitals: Insights into practice

Hospitals in Thuringia are increasingly relying on AI-supported technologies to optimize patient care and operational processes:

• Early diagnosis: AI-supported image processing improves disease detection and enables early interventions. At Jena University Hospital (UKJ), AI has been used since 2019 to analyze medical images from computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

• Optimized processes: Automating administrative tasks and patient management through AI increases efficiency, for example through improved demand forecasts for blood products, optimized staff schedules, and easier coordination of patient transports. Within the framework of the BMBF-funded junior research group AI-LoV, the Jena University Hospital (UKJ Jena) is currently investigating how data-driven models can make logistics in healthcare more efficient.

• AI, automation/robotics and system integration: At the Ernst Abbe University of Applied Sciences Jena, the automation and development of robotic assistance systems in hospitals is being advanced, enabling more precise surgical procedures and relieving the burden on medical staff. ICT-supported solutions such as intelligent prostheses and exoskeletons are also gaining importance in rehabilitation. Virtual health assistants and remote monitoring systems further enhance the quality of care.

3. Overcoming the challenges of digitalization in healthcare

Digitalization in healthcare offers enormous potential, but to successfully leverage these opportunities, regulatory hurdles must be overcome and data privacy concerns addressed. Targeted training for medical staff is a crucial step in mastering the legal framework. This training helps them understand complex regulations and apply them confidently. 

At the same time, the use of anonymized or synthetic data opens a way to drive innovation without compromising patient privacy. A prime example of this is the AVATAR-Project in Thuringia that aims to convert real patient data into digital avatars so that the data can be used in compliance with data protection regulations.

The introduction of digital solutions in healthcare also requires the reduction of acceptance barriers and the development of digital skills. This can be achieved through practical demonstrations that showcase the benefits of the technologies in real-world applications, clear communication about their advantages and functionalities, and targeted training. Uniform data standards and close collaboration between providers are also essential to fully exploit the potential of digitalization.

Conclusion 

The digital solutions presented at InnoLOG impressively demonstrate how Thuringian companies are improving patient care and increasing the efficiency of healthcare processes. Even though digitalization in healthcare still faces challenges – for example, regarding data protection – it is clear that Thuringia is well-equipped to overcome these hurdles. Ultimately, digital transformation in healthcare is not just a goal, but an ongoing process in which Thuringia will play a key role.