Author: Peter Amrhyn

FAQ: EUDI-Wallets in Healthcare Sector

Many industries expect the upcoming introduction of EUDI-wallets to boost their digitalization efforts, not least the healthcare sector. However, it will still be some time before these wallets become widely adopted. Businesses and institutions should therefore not wait but start digitalizing their processes now. The necessary technologies are already available. In our FAQ, we answer the most important questions

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What is the European Digital Identity (EUDI) Wallet and why is it important for the healthcare sector?

The European Digital Identity (EUDI) Wallet is an initiative by the European Union that enables individuals and businesses to store and manage identity credentials on their personal devices securely. It allows users to verify their identity, access services, and sign documents digitally while maintaining full control over their personal data. The system is designed to comply with strict regulations such as GDPR and aims to simplify cross-border digital interactions across EU member states.

The EUDI-wallet has the potential to significantly improve patient identification processes and enable new digital healthcare services, particularly in eHealth and telemedicine. By providing a standardized and secure way to verify identities, it can enhance efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and support cross-border healthcare services. However, its full benefits will only materialize once general adoption becomes widespread and systems are fully implemented.

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Should healthcare providers wait for EUDI-wallet implementation?
Waiting for the full rollout of EUDI-wallet could delay urgently needed digital transformation in healthcare. Implementation timelines are uncertain, and even after availability, widespread adoption will take time. Healthcare providers already face operational pressures, and delaying digitalization risks worsening inefficiencies, increasing staff workload, and potentially leading to insecure workarounds such as shadow IT. Instead of waiting for the full wallet rollout, organizations should start digitalizing their processes now, using existing technologies that support later wallet integration.
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Why is trust so important in eHealth solutions?
Trust is fundamental in healthcare because sensitive personal data is involved and decisions can have life-or-death consequences. Patients and medical professionals must be confident that digital systems are secure, reliable, and compliant with regulations. Without strong digital trust, adoption of new technologies in healthcare will be limited. Furthermore, healthcare systems are facing rising costs, staff shortages, and increased demand for services. Digitalization must meet strict requirements due to the sensitivity of medical data and the critical nature of healthcare decisions. Secure data handling, reliable identification, and comprehensive documentation are essential, making digital transformation more complex than in other industries.
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What identification methods are currently available?
Several identification methods already exist, including NFC-enabled physical ID documents, bank account-based identification, face-to-face verification, classic video identification, and assisted video identification. Each method has its advantages and limitations regarding accessibility, security, cost, and regulatory compliance. Assisted video identification and national electronic ID systems are currently the most promising alternatives. Assisted video identification is particularly flexible, as it does not require a PIN and works with various international ID documents. In contrast, methods such as bank-based identification and classic video identification may become obsolete due to evolving regulations. Combining multiple identification methods into a single flexible solution ensures that different user preferences and regulatory requirements can be met simultaneously. It allows organizations to adapt to changing technologies and regulations while providing inclusive access to digital services.
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How does Swisscom Trust Services support healthcare organizations?

Swisscom Trust Services provides secure digital identification and signature solutions that comply with both European and Swiss regulations. It enables healthcare providers and other organizations to implement compliant digital onboarding and transaction processes while reducing integration complexity and ensuring cross-border operability. Swisscom's solutions are designed to be adaptable, allowing new identification methods, such as EUDI wallets, to be integrated once they become available. This ensures that organizations can start digitalization immediately while remaining prepared for future technological developments.

Swisscom's Multiple Authentication Broker (MAB) is a solution that guides users through the identification process by selecting the most appropriate authentication method. It integrates multiple identification technologies into a single platform, enabling seamless onboarding and compliance with legal requirements. It also allows for easy integration of new methods, including future digital identity wallets.

Are you ready to take action?

At Swisscom, we want to help eHealth companies gain traction and create value by providing secure identification and verification services quickly. To that end, we are launching our Trust Start & Trust Pilot Program. This consecutive, modular approach starts with a one-day analysis workshop. If use cases are identified, we can continue building a proof of concept together, either as a 5-20-day sprint or a 25-day full PoC (Proof of Concept). Our goal is to deliver real value and guide customers toward generating revenue.

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Want to dive deeper into healthcare-grade e-identification first? No problem, download our free whitepaper, highlighting our pragmatic approach to overcoming healthcare ID challenges, here.