Interreg Project HERCULES is a joint project of UTwente's TechMed and EL-IPS
The University of Twente's TechMed and EL-IPS have been awarded the prestigious Interreg project HERCULES, a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing the innovation performance of European healthcare systems. The project, entitled HERCULES (Health Empowerment through Regional Collaboration by Fostering Innovation from the Demand Side), focuses on a collaborative effort among various regions, each represented by a project partner responsible for managing the project in their region.
Main Phase Objectives:
The main phase of HERCULES encompasses three primary objectives: identifying innovation needs and market operators, selecting innovative healthcare solutions, and evaluating the impact of these solutions. A series of interregional learning events will be conducted, focusing on diverse thematic areas related to healthcare innovation, personalised medicine, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
Benchmarking and Good Practices:
The project includes benchmarking and good practices identification, with a defined methodology by the Advisory Partner. The team intends to identify European best practices, develop a benchmarking tool for measuring innovation performance, and enhance policy instruments supporting healthcare innovation.
Communication and Stakeholder Engagement:
Communication and stakeholder engagement are integral components of HERCULES. The project team will implement strategies for knowledge sharing using online and traditional media channels. Stakeholder engagement will involve regional authorities, universities, and researchers in various project phases.
Follow-Up Phase:
The follow-up phase focuses on monitoring policy implementation and impact. Partners will ensure stakeholder engagement, review and update the communication strategy, and organise webinars to report policy improvements. The final HERCULES conference will celebrate project results, with the University of Twente providing advisory support throughout.
University of Twente's Role:
As the Advisory Partner, the University of Twente will contribute expertise in PPI and PCP, capability building, and innovative technologies for personalised medicine. The university will advise on methodologies, assist in analysing and selecting best practices, and provide guidance on inter-organizational workshops. Towards the project's end, UTwente will facilitate deeper exchanges among partners and verify the achievement of policy improvements.
Conclusion:
University of Twente’s TechMed and EL-IPS are committed to advancing the project's objectives and contributing to improving healthcare innovation across Europe. The HERCULES project marks a significant milestone in fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and policy improvement to benefit European healthcare systems.