SUSA Drives Digital Transformation in European Healthcare
The SUSA project is leading a major effort to close digital skills gaps across European healthcare. This pan-European initiative spans nine countries and focuses on preparing both students and professionals for a data-driven healthcare system.
Overall, the project plans to graduate 6,558 students and upskill 660 healthcare professionals with advanced digital skills.
Building Skills Through Modern Education
To achieve this goal, SUSA will deliver 20 bachelor’s programmes and 26 master’s programmes. In addition, it will offer 16 lifelong learning modules for working professionals.
All programmes follow 20 shared learning objectives. As a result, the SUSA model promotes collaboration, data-based education, and alignment with the European Green Deal’s vision for a healthier society.
Attracting Talent and Supporting Health Data Sharing
By improving interoperability and attracting talent from across Europe, SUSA strengthens the healthcare workforce. Moreover, its multidisciplinary curricula prepare learners for the growing need for health data sharing and digital services.
At this stage, the project is already reporting results from its participating institutions.
According to SUSA project leader Minna Isomursu from the University of Oulu, collaboration across countries and organisations has sparked new ideas. These ideas improve both learning content and how education delivers real-world impact.
Preparing Professionals for a Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
The University of Oulu coordinates the SUSA project and plays a central role in reshaping healthcare education. It has embedded advanced digital skills into bachelor’s and master’s programmes in biomedical engineering and health sciences.
Consequently, future healthcare professionals will be better prepared to work in a digital and data-driven environment.
In parallel, the university is developing a standalone module on customer-oriented digital services in social welfare and digital healthcare. This module supports continuous learning for professionals already in the field.
Key Achievements of the SUSA Project
SUSA project manager Corinna Uhr explained that the initiative goes beyond curriculum updates. Instead, it fosters strong links between academia and industry to prepare the next generation of healthcare innovators.
So far, several developments stand out.
European Health Data Space Integration
In partnership with Success Clinic, the University of Oulu introduced European Health Data Space concepts to students in information processing, software engineering, and health sciences.
The programme combined hybrid lectures with interactive sessions focused on primary and secondary health data. In addition, SUSA’s Shared Learning Experience supported the training.
A joint survey then assessed learning outcomes. These results now guide further improvements.
Virtual Lab for Digital Engineering Skills
Together with the University of Zagreb, Oulu launched a cross-border virtual lab funded by the UNIC VIP Fund.
This lab strengthens engineering education through digital exercises, challenge-based learning, and inclusive design. As a result, students gain practical skills and stronger digital confidence.
Looking Ahead
As the project progresses, SUSA remains committed to innovation in healthcare education. Ultimately, it aims to equip thousands of European graduates and professionals with the digital skills needed to transform healthcare systems across Europe.
According to Minna Isomursu, SUSA’s work shows how shared expertise and collaboration can reshape both learning and the future of healthcare.
