Bridging Past and Future: Five Years of MedTech Advancements and Beyond
On 6 November, around 400 MedTech experts, healthcare professionals, policymakers, entrepreneurs, researchers, and students gathered for the 2024 TechMed Event, organised by the Technical Medical Centre at the University of Twente. This annual event - now in its sixth year - offered a unique platform for sharing cutting-edge innovations and insights in medical technology.
In inspiring presentations, the speakers emphasised the indispensable role of the TechMed Centre in advancing MedTech innovations within the Twente region. The TechMed Centre’s success is evident in the growth of innovative ecosystems like the MedTech Cluster, a dynamic hub that unites talent, technology, and entrepreneurship.
The speakers highlighted the TechMed Centre's significant impact as an innovator, catalyst, and connecting force in MedTech. Its state-of-the-art research facilities, deep R&D expertise, and a unique culture of collaboration enable this impact. "The TechMed Centre is crucial for transforming hospitals into high-tech hubs where advanced technology meets compassionate care," Miriam Vollenbroek-Hutten from Medisch Spectrum Twente emphasised. Through its commitment to Twente and beyond, the TechMed Centre drives medical technology breakthroughs that strengthen the economy and contribute to a healthier future for all.
His Royal Highness Prince Constantijn of the Netherlands, closely involved in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in the Netherlands through his role as Special Envoy of Techleap.nl, congratulated the TechMed Centre in an online video message. He highlighted the impressive achievements made over the past five years and emphasised the unique bridging role of the TechMed Centre, where students, entrepreneurs, researchers, and medical specialists collaborate to develop innovative healthcare solutions.
Afterwards, Jeroen Wissink, CEO of Uneedle, gave a lecture in which he noted: “That’s why the establishment of the TechMed Centre is so significant. It’s exactly the kind of organisation we need today to close the gap between technology and medicine. The TechMed Centre isn’t just about educating doctors; it’s about creating an ecosystem where we can conduct research and development on the many products we’re developing in Twente.”
Five-Stage Personalised Program
The event offered a five-stage personalised program, featuring 15 interactive sessions and panel discussions. Key topics included the sustainability and innovations of medical devices, and partnerships such as HealthTech Nexus, TOPFIT, and Tech.Land, key technologies like chip and imaging technology, and solutions to the healthcare workforce shortage.
The MedTech Innovation Trail at the TechMed Event offered visitors a unique look at medical innovations. One of the highlights was Valuetrack Health's database, which acts as a guide for start-ups and innovators to navigate the complex MDR and IVDR regulations. This database makes it easier to successfully bring new technologies to healthcare practice, a key example of the valuable insights and tools visitors could discover during the MedTech Innovation Trail.
Keynote Kylle Jordan
The day concluded with an inspiring keynote by Kylle Jordan, who shared her experiences at Destination Medical Center (DMC). She discussed the successful approach to establishing large-scale public-private partnerships between the Mayo Clinic, academic institutions, regional governments and industry partners. One of the most impressive examples of economic development within the DMC is the creation of the Discovery Square district. This innovative area in Rochester is specifically designed to attract medical startups, biotechnology companies and researchers focused on new technologies for healthcare. This ecosystem, where clinical expertise and cutting-edge technology go hand in hand, not only accelerates the development and commercialization of medical innovations but also gives companies faster access to crucial approvals.
Focus on collaboration
With many networking opportunities and a strong focus on collaboration, the TechMed Event 2024 was a great success. It created an inspiring space where new ideas were born and partnerships strengthened, all to advance sustainable and personalised healthcare.
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Previous edition | 2023
On 1 November 2023, about 350 medical professionals, MedTech companies, researchers and students came together for a day of inspiration and networking, at the TechMed Centre. The TechMed Event kicked off the MedTech Twente Week organised in cooperation with partners of MedTech Twente (2-4 November). This year's TechMed Event focused on shaping a healthy future for future generations and we showcased the latest medical technological developments.
University of Twente - TechMed Centre
Enabling sustainable and personalised health by means of technology
The TechMed Centre is a leading innovation hub making an impact on healthcare through research, innovation, and education. Equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, including research laboratories, preclinical testbeds, and simulated hospital environments, the TechMed Centre drives technological advancements in healthcare.
Impact on healthcare
We believe that the development, evaluation, and appropriate implementation of technology enable sustainable and personalised health for everyone. In our mission to impact society, we stimulate entrepreneurship and enable (new) companies to grow within our regional ecosystem. As an innovation hub, we collaborate with experts from healthcare, biomedical technology, and government sectors to make an impact on health in society.
