Swiss Post Doubles Down on Healthcare Logistics Amid Digital Patient Record Debate
Bern, Switzerland – Swiss Post is strategically expanding its presence in the healthcare market, viewing medical logistics as a key growth sector, even as questions arise regarding its continued role in managing the nation’s electronic patient records. the state-owned company is actively investing in services ranging from the transport of lab samples to the secure delivery of medication,capitalizing on increasing demands within Switzerland’s evolving healthcare landscape.
Despite being the largest provider of electronic patient records in Switzerland – currently holding approximately 60,000 dossiers – the future of this service is under scrutiny. Concerns center on potential cost-cutting measures and a broader parliamentary debate over the scope of the Post’s mandated services.Digitalization expert Stefan Angerer warns that discontinuing the electronic patient record offering would represent “a step backwards for digitalization” of the Swiss health system, even if the financial impact on the Post itself would be minimal.
The move into broader healthcare logistics reflects a strategic shift for Swiss Post, facing increasing competition in traditional mail services. The company aims to leverage its established nationwide network and secure infrastructure to meet the specialized needs of the medical sector. Parliament is currently weighing proposals from various political factions – with civil forces advocating for a more narrowly defined postal mandate and leftists cautioning against perhaps dismantling the Post’s comprehensive service portfolio, including its healthcare functions. The outcome of this debate will significantly shape the future of healthcare services provided by Swiss Post and the overall trajectory of digital health initiatives within the country.
