Advances in 5G technology are revolutionizing the healthcare sector, paving the way for smarter, more efficient medical services and building management systems. This transformative project in Stockholm exemplifies how private 5G networks can enhance emergency response, patient safety, and operational efficiency. By integrating cutting-edge digital solutions, healthcare providers and infrastructure managers can deliver higher quality care while optimizing resource use, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and connected health ecosystem in Europe.
The initiative aims to deploy a dedicated 5G infrastructure that interlinks various healthcare and building management components. Such networks facilitate real-time data exchange and remote monitoring, vital for modern medical workflows and building operations. To deepen your understanding of the healthcare infrastructure, explore the role of primary healthcare providers, which are fundamental to delivering effective services in this digital era. Additionally, selecting the right primary care doctor is crucial; learn more about how to choose the best primary care physician to ensure continuous and comprehensive healthcare.
What will it provide?
This project is designed to develop innovative, resource-efficient solutions that significantly improve emergency medical services, enhance patient safety, and elevate the quality of care. It emphasizes strengthening communication channels among ambulances, emergency departments, and specialized care units through reliable, high-speed connectivity. Features such as real-time patient triage, hospital equipment tracking, and seamless data sharing will streamline workflows and reduce response times. Moreover, the project aims to optimize building management processes, resulting in smarter, energy-efficient healthcare facilities. For insights into effective healthcare management strategies, review the role of the primary healthcare provider, which highlights core practices for efficient patient and resource management.
How will it work?
The backbone of this initiative is a private 5G network that will enable several innovative use cases:
- Drone delivery of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and situational awareness – Utilizing beyond visual line of sight drones, the network will facilitate rapid delivery of life-saving devices during out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. This technology also supports real-time video communication, enabling dispatchers, responders, and medical teams to collaborate effectively and improve patient outcomes.
- Real-time location tracking of hospital equipment – Sensors integrated into hospital beds, infusion pumps, and other critical devices will be monitored via the 5G network. This ensures vital equipment is always available where needed, reducing staff time spent searching for devices and improving overall hospital efficiency.
- Enhanced triage and emergency room intake – Video links between ambulances and on-call physicians will allow better pre-arrival assessment and preparation, leading to faster, more accurate patient prioritization.
- AR and VR integration with Building Information Management (BIM) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) – These advanced visualization tools, powered by 5G, will facilitate digital twin environments for building development, maintenance, and infrastructure management, leading to smarter urban healthcare facilities.
- Improved energy efficiency in HVAC systems – IoT-connected sensors and digital twins will enable detailed monitoring and management of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, optimizing indoor air quality and reducing energy consumption.
In developing such a network, the project will implement a high-bandwidth private 5G system operating in the 3.5 GHz spectrum, combining indoor coverage with dedicated capacity in the existing macro network. This infrastructure will include base stations and cloud-based resources, creating a resilient backbone for these innovative applications.
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How will it be built?
Construction involves deploying a dedicated, high-bandwidth 5G network integrated with an advanced core system. This setup combines indoor coverage with capacity for outdoor and urban environments, ensuring seamless connectivity across healthcare and building management sites. The network architecture leverages both base stations and cloud resources to support diverse use cases, from emergency response to infrastructure monitoring.
How is it financed?
With a total budget of €8.50 million, the project is primarily financed through the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital program, which contributes €6.38 million. This funding exemplifies the EU’s commitment to fostering innovative digital health solutions and smart infrastructure development across member states.
Who is involved?
Led by Region Stockholm, the project benefits from collaboration with key industry players. The beneficiary is Telia Sverige AB, while affiliated entities include SODERSJUKHUSET AB, LOCUM AB, and AMBULANSSJUKVARDEN I STORSTOCKHOLM AKTIEBOLAG. Such partnerships are vital for the successful deployment and operation of these advanced healthcare solutions, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts among public authorities and private companies.
How can I find out more about the project?
Further information can be obtained from the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA). To explore how digital health innovations are shaping the future, visit the EU Funding and Tenders Portal for detailed project documentation. For insights into how primary healthcare professionals play a crucial role in digital transformation, review the role of primary healthcare providers. Ensuring continuous patient care often depends on selecting the right healthcare providers, so learn how to choose the best primary care physician. Maintaining a trusted health partnership is vital; discover the importance of having a primary care partner.