The Octodoc® hybrid telemedicine innovation was showcased for the first time in Germany at the MEDICA Trade Fair - 2023 edition.

The multifunctional telemedicine prototype with integrated video assistance reached its next design and functionality level. The latest version of the innovative Octodoc® kiosk attracted the attention of health industry leaders, at one of the most prestigious medical exhibitions in the world, which took place at Messe Düsseldorf – Germany, between November 13th-16th, 2023.

Although technology is advancing at an unprecedented speed, in the 21st century, over a quarter of the world’s population has limited access to basic medical advice, treatment plans, and medication. According to the World Health Organization, there is a global shortage of more than 4.3 million doctors, with most physicians concentrated only in big cities. All in the context of population aging: in 2024, the population category under the age of 15 will be surpassed by the 65+ category, leading to an exponential increase of medical needs regarding: consults, health monitoring, and treatment for chronic diseases.

Here are just a few of the reasons behind the initiative of the Octodoc team to build the world’s first interactive telemedicine solution that brings doctors closer to patients, regardless of location or level of digital skills.

GEORGE NICULCEA – Octodoc Vicepresident and Founder: „At international scale, the avoidable mortality rate is increasing alarmingly due to the inefficient distribution of doctors and the lack of education on the importance of prevention for health. Most victims are among vulnerable rural populations. And Romania ranks first in Europe regarding deaths from preventable and treatable causes.

The accelerated evolution of technology in recent years must be increasingly reflected in the medical industry through tangible progress that saves lives, increases life expectancy through quality health services, and supports the operational performance of medical staff. With these premises, we laid the foundations of the first hybrid telemedicine solution that will shorten the distance between doctors and patients and will significantly reduce the urban-rural gap regarding access to remote medical consultations.

Our pioneering tech initiative requires long term vision, sustained efforts, determination, strategic partnerships, and substantial resources. For over 3 years, our multidisciplinary team has been working closely with engineers, doctors, patients, hospital managers, and legislative staff – to perfect both the Octodoc® kiosk and the national and international launch strategy – starting with disadvantaged areas where there are no physicians. We encourage other business and state leaders to join us on the mission to redefine medcare standards in Romania, and beyond”.

The MEDICA International Trade Fair reunites top experts in the field every year and brings impressive medical technologies into the spotlight – all in a multicultural and futuristic setting, fertile for strategic partnerships that impact the future of the global health system.

The 6,100 exhibitors and 609 speakers of this year’s edition attracted more than 83,000 visitors from 166 countries, who explored and debated practical solutions for revolutionizing the medical paradigm during four days of exciting presentations and demo sessions with spectacular medical equipment.

ANAMARIA PRIPINA – Executive Director, Octodoc: „The evolution of the medical sector is every technology leader’s duty. We are proud to be among the startups that put Romania on the strategic map of global innovation developers for the healthcare ecosystem.

Our ambition is beyond the commercial sphere, as the Octodoc® equipment is an instrument of change for the better, in which we invest with determination and responsibility. Furthermore, beyond our groundbreaking hybrid telemedicine technology, we passionately promote health education efforts – raising awareness on the vital importance of prevention through information and routine check-ups.”

More than 80 percent of MEDICA fair participants are decision-makers in the companies or institutions they represent, which means that the niche exhibition represents a real platform for launching and validating the best MedTech innovations and a dynamic space that practically influences the evolution of the medical world. This year’s main discussion topic was the digital transformation of the medical industry, with a focus on remote patient care and the integration of artificial intelligence in monitoring, diagnosis, treatment, cardiovascular surgery, etc.

The Octodoc team attended the fair as an exhibiting partner and attracted the attention and interest of hundreds of visitors with interactive presentations and demo sessions with the newest version of the telemedicine device. Even more, the company had the honor of also representing Romania in the International IT Gallery, alongside the most innovative countries in the world.

Notable advantages of using the Octodoc® kiosk:

• Access to telemedicine for all – including disadvantaged communities and people with disabilities.
• Reducing waiting time to get to the doctor, travel costs, as well as the carbon footprint.
• Optimizing operational performance in hospitals and medical offices, along with additional income for medical practitioners.
• Better monitoring of chronic patients, and the launch of more educational programs on prevention.
• The modular, customizable structure of the multifunctional device can accommodate most of the needs of the medical community.

Among the basic Octodoc® functionalities are: health card reader, printer and scanner for medical documents, audio-video assistance for appointments and information with the help of the customer relations team, video consultations with doctors, card payment option – POS system, quick management of medical history data, and other useful functions involving artificial intelligence and routine medical tests.

The Octodoc equipment is in the final stage of production and software implementation, and will soon be accessible to the public – both covered by insurance and with paid service.

Find out more information via octodoc.eu. For strategic partnership opportunities, business details, or demo session requests – the Octodoc consultants are ready to offer prompt support – email: sales@octodoc.ro.

Sources: UN, Eurostat, ITU, Medica