The forum has established itself as a platform for exchange and focuses on the future of laboratory medicine beyond the current remuneration discussions. Stefanie Giesener, Deputy Chairwoman of the VDGH Executive Board, opened the event and emphasized: "The Diagnostica Forum thrives on dialogue. It is about jointly highlighting the opportunities and challenges of new technologies and developing perspectives for healthcare."
Four thematic blocks
The program was divided into four main topics:
- Young laboratory: the focus here was on the transformation of laboratory medicine through digitalization, automation and the use of artificial intelligence. How laboratory physicians and medical technologists can shape their role in an increasingly technological working environment and how the industry can support this process were discussed.
- New technologies and markers: Presentations highlighted the use of artificial intelligence in early detection, advances in minimal residual disease (MRD) in oncology and new developments in Alzheimer's diagnostics.
- Trends in healthcare: The focus was on gender-specific medicine, the consequences of climate change for the spread of infectious diseases and new approaches in cell and gene therapy.
- Regulation - change is now: The further development of the Rili-BÄK and the ongoing revision of the European IVD Regulation (IVDR) were discussed. Representatives from the German Medical Association, pathology and industry presented their views.
Platform for exchange
The VDGH sees the Diagnostica Forum as a bridge between industry, laboratories and politics. "Especially in times of skills shortages and regulatory change, it is clear how important this exchange is," said Dr. Martin Walger, Managing Director of the VDGH, in his closing remarks.
