Critical success factors for creating sustainable digital health applications: A systematic review of the German case

Abstract

Objective The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies to address social needs, leading to increased investments in digital healthcare applications. Germany implemented a special law called the “Digitales Versorgungsgesetz” (DVG—Digital Supply Act) in 2019, which enables the reimbursement of digital health applications, including digital therapeutics (DTx), through a fast-track process. The Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM), the German federal authority responsible for overseeing digital health applications, has implemented legislative adjustments since the law's introduction, which have increased requirements for these applications and potentially led to the removal of some from the directory as well as a slowdown in the addition of new ones. To counteract this trend, this work aimed to identify key success factors for digital health applications (DiGAs). Methods This research identifies critical success factors through a structured literature review for developing sustainable digital health applications within the European healthcare systems, specifically DiGAs. The study aims to support the ongoing digital transformation in healthcare. Results The identified success factors that significantly impact the sustainability of DiGAs include patient-centered design, application effectiveness, user-friendliness, and adherence to data protection and information security regulations using standardized approaches. These factors are crucial in preventing the failure of DiGA manufacturers in European countries. Conclusion By considering and implementing these critical success factors, DiGA manufacturers can enhance their chances of long-term success and contribute to the digital transformation of the healthcare system in Europe.