On 18–19 March 2026, over two intensive days in Jasná, ITAPA Health & Care 2026 confirmed that digital transformation in healthcare is no longer a vision, but a reality shaped by concrete solutions, data, and people.

From discussions on AI-assisted surgery and smarter use of health data, to hospital cybersecurity and patient-centred care, the conference brought together a diverse group of experts, practitioners, and innovators.

With nearly 400 participants and a highly dynamic programme, the event created a strong space for exchange between technology, policy, and practice.

CELSI Managing Director Marta Kahancová contributed to this debate in a 1on2 discussion on “People in the System: The Workforce as a Pillar of the Framework”, alongside Jan Drahokoupil (European Labour Authority), moderated by Miroslav Alexovič.

The discussion highlighted a key point that resonated throughout the conference: even as healthcare systems become more technologically advanced, their sustainability ultimately depends on people.

Topics included working conditions, staff shortages, retention, and the need to align technological innovation with the realities of care work.

Bringing evidence from CELSI’s research, including insights from the DEVCOBA project, Marta emphasised that without a stable and well-supported workforce, even the most advanced systems risk falling short of their goals.

ITAPA Health & Care 2026 clearly showed that the future of healthcare lies in connecting innovation with human capacity and that meaningful reform must integrate both.

🔗 More information: https://www.itapa.sk/itapa-health-care-2026/

📷 Peter Stas

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