Si Summit is an exclusive, invitation-only gathering that spans two days, bringing together up to 100 healthcare executives, business leaders, and students. This summit aims to address crucial challenges in healthcare through interactive discussions conducted in roundtable sessions. A student at each table will actively challenge and contribute to the discussion.

The summit is designed to foster interaction, guided by the principles of the Chatham House Rule, to encourage an open and unrestricted forum for dialogue.

The outcomes of our engaging sessions will be compiled in a white paper, shared among delegates and presented to the European Parliament.

The Si Summit is held by
 Sundhed.dk International Foundation: a Danish non-profit foundation.
Location
Hotel Sunway Playa Golf & SPA, Passeig Marítim, 92, 08870 Sitges, Barcelona
​​​​Date & Time
September 26, 2024, 9:00 AM - September 27, 2024 - 5:00 PM
Who's going to be there?
The registration has started off well, and especially the Danish healthcare leaders have signed up for the event. You can meet all the regional health and IT directors from Denmark. Additionally, national IT organisations such as MedCom have confirmed their attendance. But other countries are also beginning to seriously join the fray; Scotland's Ministry of Health has been responsible for gathering a delegation of hospital directors. And in Estonia, Finland, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Spain, national delegations are also being formed.

Below you can see what a couple of the attendees are looking forward to:
Klaus Larsen - IT Director in the North Denmark Region
I'm very much looking forward to Si Summit 2024. The format and participants at the Summit provide me with a unique opportunity to discuss my challenges with other leaders in Denmark and Europe in a way where we hear about successes and, equally importantly, failures in rare open and honest discussions. The fact that participants are there by invitation means they all have practical and managerial experiences to contribute to an equal discussion. The reflections within the Danish delegation are incredibly rewarding in terms of translating international experiences into application within the Danish healthcare system.
Lars Hulbæk - CEO of MedCom
Si Summit is an exceptional opportunity to discuss the challenges faced by leaders when implementing national IT solutions in a healthcare system under great pressure from many sides. The opportunity to share experiences with leaders from other countries facing the same challenges in a transparent and genuine dialogue makes it possible to leverage common knowledge.
Industry participation
At our upcoming summit, we regard the industry as an integral part of the solution. We aim to involve industry leaders in discussions about the challenges facing the healthcare system and explore how their contributions can help address these issues.
To ensure a focused and productive dialogue, we have invited a select group of industry representatives. Their insights and expertise will contribute to identifying innovative solutions and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors.
We believe that by engaging the industry in these conversations, we can leverage their perspectives and capabilities to drive meaningful improvements in healthcare.
Schedule
September 26

09.30-10.00
Welcome and introduction to the Si Summit
10.00-10.15
Opening Keynote by Joan Guanyabens, CEO TIC Salut Social Foundation
10.15-11.00
Inspirational talk: AI and Ethics - Stephen Alstrup
The talk will follow up on last year’s discussion about AI and the possibilities and challenges presented by the technology to the healthcare system. In just one year, significant progress has been made in development, with extensive discussions focusing particularly on the ethical considerations of AI usage.
11.00-11.30
Coffee break
11.30-13.00
Key challenges - the biggest leadership challenges now
Selected regions will give a short introduction to their biggest challenge or opportunity looking one year ahead.
- Norway, "Finding ways to sustain public healthcare in demanding times". Nis Johansen, Head of Digital Innovation, South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority
- Denmark, "Before the storm, the upcoming structural reform". CEO Kurt Espersen, Region of Southern Denmark
- Estonia, "Next step for Estonia". Rain Laane, Chairman of the Board, Estonia Health Insurance

13.00-14.00
Lunch

14.00-15.00
First roundtable
15.00-15.30
Key findings from roundtables
15.30-16.00
Coffee break
16.00-17.00
Panel discussion - Cross-sector collaboration
European healthcare organisations and systems recognise the necessity of enhanced cross-sector collaboration to effectively address the challenges they confront.
How can we foster better collaboration among hospitals, primary care providers, and preventive and rehabilitation services? What lessons can we glean from both successful initiatives and shortcomings?
17.00-17.30
Refreshments
17.30-18.30
National moments, organised by each country

20.00-
Networking event

September 27

08.00-09.30
Breakfast
09.30-09.45
Welcome and introduction to day 2
09.45-10.30
Keynote - The climate challenges and opportunities in healthcare systems - Aline Mittag
The keynote will explore lessons learned and practical examples of challenges and opportunities relating to climate in the health care systems.
Two practical examples will showcase the implementation of strategies in daily operation. What leadership considerations guide the decisions and how do they translate into actionable operation?
10.30-11.00
Discussions
11.00-11.30
Coffee break
11.30-12.30
Second roundtable
12.30-13.00
Key findings from roundtables

13.00-14.00
Lunch

14.00-14.30
Cyber Security (resilience and supply change)  - Eva Jorquera Lerís
The keynote will combine two points of view: hospital and cybersecurity agency, describing a real incident and how both sides collaborate to contain, investigate, and recover essential activities. The talk will also explain the strategy applied jointly with the Catalan Health Department to minimise future incidents.
14.30-15.00
Reflections from the conference
15.00-15.30
Refreshments
15.30-16.00
National moments, organised by each country

20.00-
Optional social event
Meet Your Host -
 Adam Montandon
Meet your host and moderator, Adam Montandon: a British author, educator, and public speaker who loves to share his knowledge and energy with audiences.

Adam has delivered captivating keynotes at prestigious universities and conferences across the globe.
Based in Odense, Denmark, Adam's influence extends beyond the podium, as his dynamic presence has graced award-winning documentaries on platforms such as the Discovery Channel, BBC and Research TV.
Keynote Speakers
Get to know our confirmed keynote speakers here.

Aline Mittag
Head of Sustainability
Asklepios
As Head of Sustainability at Asklepios, the second largest hospital chain in Germany, Aline Mittag manages the company's sustainable transformation. In her role, she is responsible for ensuring that ESG targets are achieved and processes are guided in the right direction. Coming from the medical technology industry, she is also familiar with the challenges from a supplier perspective.
Stephen Alstrup
Professor in algorithms
Univeristy of Copenhagen
Stephen Alstrup is a world-leading Algorithms Professor and Danish Government advisor on the latest digitalisation strategy. As a Master of Philosophy, he focuses on data ethics' intersection with AI. He is also co-founder of SupWiz, a company focused on AI for service and support, used by thousands of agents globally.image001.png 
Eva Jorquera Lerís
Head of Health Cybersecurity of the Cybersecurity Agency of Catalonia
As head of the health cybersecurity area of the Cybersecurity Agency of Catalonia, Eva Jorquera Lerís works with the Health Department of the Generalitat of Catalonia defining policies and actions to increase the cybersecurity of the public Catalan health service. The Agency is responsible for establishing cybersecurity public policies and developing the cybersecurity strategy of the Generalitat de Catalunya as well as fighting cyberincidents. 
Get a feeling...
...of what to expect from the talks. As you prepare for the Si Summit, don't miss the opportunity to hear Stephen Alstrup, a leading expert in artificial intelligence, discuss how AI can help create a better life. In his inspiring TED Talk, "How to Create a Good Life with AI," he explores how AI can enhance our quality of life and unlock new possibilities. At the summit, join us to gain valuable insights into how technology can shape a brighter future. Watch his TED Talk here.
Roundtable Discussions
Leadership in healthcare.
Where innovation meets impact, and every decision
paves the way for a healthier tomorrow.

Step into the dynamic domain of healthcare, where the role of leadership isn’t just important – it’s the driving force behind the sector’s effectiveness and sustainability on both national and European levels. In this ever-evolving landscape, leadership is more than making decisions; it's about prioritising and adapting. Skills that are crucial for tackling the constant challenges faced by today’s healthcare systems.

But here’s the twist: it’s not a solitary journey. Strategic partnerships among leaders from various sectors and countries hold the key to unlocking collaboration and strategic knowledge sharing. Imagine the potential when minds from different corners of Europe unite, pooling resources and expertise to propel healthcare systems towards greater efficiency and sustainability. This isn't just another conference; it's an exclusive rendezvous for leaders shaping the future of European healthcare. 


Sharing of healthcare data across Europe.
The success of the European Health Data Space (EHDS) demands that health leaders tackle the complex challenge of balancing patient privacy, fostering innovation, and driving top-tier research. Healthcare leaders must break down barriers and critically assess the existing structure and standards, forging a path towards a future where data fuels transformative healthcare.
How do we tackle interoperability and the lack of standardisation stemming from diverse formats and standards in different systems? How can we harness EHDS in the future to facilitate information sharing and collectively pursue the shared objective of enhancing healthcare for all European citizens? Additionally, what will be the implementation costs of EHDS and how will they be recovered?

Strengthening the continuous improvement of healthcare quality.
Enhancing quality through data-driven solutions brings significant benefits to both patients and the healthcare system. Picture this: quality data, driving solutions that revolutionise patient care, decision-making, and operational efficiency. It's not just about numbers; it's about empowering healthcare leaders to make informed decisions that facilitate more efficient treatment development across sectors. Whether tackling technical challenges, organisational hurdles, or concerns regarding data security, a cohesive and integrated strategy is needed to comprehensively address these obstacles.
How can we intensify the integration of quality data into daily healthcare practices to extract greater healthcare value? And what defines “great value” for the healthcare ecosystem? What management tools and processes ensure a seamless quality improvement process?

Revolutionising healthcare by utilising AI and automation for improved treatment and efficiency.
Welcome to the frontier of healthcare—the integration of AI and automation. A field that holds boundless potential, but also significant challenges - not least for healthcare leadership. Leaders at the forefront must embrace these technologies, which in the end, and used correctly, can benefit both healthcare professionals and patients. But it's not just about embracing technology; it's about mastering it. And here's where it gets intriguing: in parallel come ethical considerations and the question of trust - e.g. from trusting AI solutions to valuing the expertise of physicians. It's a delicate balance, requiring transparent communication and deep knowledge of the field.
How do we raise awareness about the ethical aspect of AI usage? What is the business case for implementing AI solutions to address healthcare services? As leaders, how do we effectively incorporate AI into decision-making?  

Strategies for growing and sustaining the workforce. 
At the heart of healthcare is the workforce. Retaining and supporting the healthcare workforce demands a nuanced combination of management strategies that address both professional and personal needs of healthcare workers. Education, while a cornerstone in maintaining a robust workforce, cannot stand alone. To build a resilient workforce, it is necessary to establish and maintain a healthy and sustainable work environment. Leaders in healthcare carry the ultimate responsibility and play a central role in cultivating environments that nurture and sustain. These leaders must adopt a proactive approach to strategies that foster a culture of support and empowerment. It's not just about reacting to challenges—it's about investing in healthcare’s most valuable asset: its people.
How do healthcare managers deal with the demands of the next generation’s approach to work-life balance? How to educate, recruit, and retain workers? How to ensure the cultural integration of workers from other countries – and deal with the potential ethical issues in recruiting from abroad? 

Navigating responsibilities and innovative solutions for a greener healthcare system.
On a societal level, the healthcare system bears a double responsibility in preserving our environment while delivering quality patient treatment. This calls for a proactive stance towards sustainability, which requires a true holistic approach and cross-sector collaboration to ensure that the healthcare system not only addresses individual health but also actively embraces a greener mindset. This requires reassessment of practices, implementing sustainable solutions, and education of both staff and patients. Some solutions are evident – from recycling equipment to reducing food waste, from conserving water to eco-friendly construction. But, amidst the solutions, many challenges persist. The trick is to uncover how healthcare can effectively contribute to sustainable living.
Are there untapped opportunities for more creative and localised solutions at departmental or individual level? How do we instil a sense of responsibility in patients and healthcare professionals? How do we propel healthcare towards a more environmentally conscious future? Are we ready to change the way we purchase for hospitals? 

From concept to action in implementing innovative healthcare solutions.
In healthcare innovation, new and better solutions may seem clear, but it takes courage to break from conventional methods and take the first step. Healthcare leaders face the challenge of navigating complex organisational structures, influencing decisions that shape the future of patient care and sustainability. Explore the path from inspiration to implementation – a journey that requires venturing beyond the comfort zone and challenging the status quo. The responsibility of leadership is not only to initiate change, but also to encourage and support employees on every step towards practical implementation. Unfortunately, the organisational weight within healthcare can prove a substantial obstacle, with prolonged decision-making processes and intricate hierarchies. The courage to insist on necessary changes becomes crucial, and leaders must persevere in paving the way for ideas and innovation.
How does one, as a healthcare leader, support the bridging of the gap from concept to action? How do you manage innovation processes towards what is crucial for a business model? And, how can we effectively transfer solutions from one place to another?

Transforming healthcare towards more home treatment and telemedicine. 
Hospitals are facing escalating pressure on healthcare services, fuelling a shift towards home treatment and telemedicine. Well-known benefits include freeing up hospital capacity, offering patient-centred treatment, improved quality of life, and more. Successful outcomes hinge on visionary leadership capable of steering through the maze of technological and organisational challenges. One key ingredient? Clarifying and distributing responsibilities to foster seamless collaboration and structure between “internal” and “external” care settings. And don’t forget the bottom line: achieving cost-effectiveness by reallocating resources demands strategic leadership prioritisation and restructuring for desired value creation.
From a leadership perspective, how do we establish the necessary incentives to drive the desired change and cooperation among healthcare professionals? How do we cultivate a culture among healthcare professionals and patients that embraces innovation and continuous improvements in home treatment? How do we ensure trustworthy high-quality services in the patient’s own home? 

Mastering the mind - mental health. Navigating the complexity between policy, leadership, and mental healthcare solutions. 
Healthcare systems are confronted with the significant task of addressing the development in the mental health burden. The stakes are high – not just in terms of financial costs for both society and the healthcare sector, but particularly the human toll on patients and their loved ones. This is where bold leadership, policymaking, and innovative thinking come into play. Given the global challenges in the mental health sector, it is necessary to explore unconventional solutions through collaboration and the sharing of targeted and concrete answers to the obstacles: insufficient funding, limited treatment options, and social inequality are just few items on the list. The severity of these challenges places substantial demands on leadership and organisational responsibility when deciding on strategic treatment approaches.
Where and how can the best treatment and highest patient value be derived from initiatives and solutions in mental health? How can we shift the leadership mindset to strengthen opportunities, innovation, and new perspectives? How do we create a better foundation for prevention and early intervention, thereby reducing the prevalence and severity of mental disorders in the long term? How do we create more coherence and synergies between somatic and mental health care services? 

Inequality in healthcare - Paths to more equal access in health care. 
At the leadership level, the healthcare system must proactively address the increasing inequalities prevalent in the patient population and treatment offerings. As our population ages and healthcare needs grow more complex, it's imperative that we confront the disparities that exist. Whether the challenges lie in access to care based on age, geography, or socioeconomic status, the time for action is now. While technology has the potential to bridge gaps and expand access, we must also acknowledge the digital divide that still exists. And let's not forget the profound impact of social inequality on health outcomes. Dive into the complexities of healthcare leadership, exploring innovative solutions to ensure equitable access and treatment options for all.
How do we deal with the challenges that come from the increasing number of citizens with different cultural and language background? As healthcare leaders, how do we assume responsibility and take actionable steps for our overall patient population to address these disparities? What are the advantages and disadvantages of centralisation versus decentralisation, for example in terms of quality, accessibility, workforce, etc.?

Steering Committee
Kurt Espersen
Chief Operating Officer, Region of Southern Denmark
Erik Jylling
Executive Vice President, Chief Medical Officer, Capital Region Denmark
Henning Schneider
Chief Information Officer, Asklepios Kliniken GMBH
Jordi Piera Jimenez
Director, Digital Health Strategy, Catalan Health Service
Herko Coomans
International Digital Health Coordinator, NL Ministry of Health & Sports
Claus Duedal Pedersen
CEO, Sundhed.dk International Foundation
Christina Roosen
independent consultant
Mette Maria Skjødt
Head of Department, PHD, HD (O), RN, Odense University Hospital
Donna Henderson
Head of International engagement for Digital Health and Care, NHS NSS/Scottish Government
Trine Albertsen 
MD and Project Manager
Location
Hotel Sunway Playa Golf & SPA
Passeig Marítim, 92, 08870 Sitges, Barcelona


Hotel websitehttps://sunway.es

Approximate distance from airport:
Taxi: 42 minutes
Public transport: 1 h 15 m (incl. a bit of walking)
By car: Parking available at the hotel (indoor and outdoor)
Contact Us
Please contact us if you would like to be considered for an invitation to the Si Summit and if you have been referred from an alumni. There is a waiting list, which we review on an ongoing basis. 
UPDATE: The Danish delegation is fully booked. If you are Danish and wish to participate, contact Claus D. Pedersen: [email protected].
For those that are already confirmed: if you have any questions, please contact Claus D. Pedersen on the above email address.
 Join us on 
Sept 26 & 27
We look forward to hosting you!

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