School of Medicine
Chair of Health Informatics
Questions relating to human-technology interaction, health infrastructure and artificial intelligence
Digitalisation has now become a key pillar of research and care within the health care system. Digital health applications (DiGa) make it possible to prescribe apps, whilst the electronic patient record (ePA) enables the cross-sectoral exchange of patient data. But how is digitalisation changing the way we work in the health care system?
The Chair of Health Informatics conducts research in the following areas:
- Human-technology interaction: Design and application of qualitative and quantitative methods to measure the acceptance and comprehensibility of technologies. Research into concepts for user-centred technology adoption and use.
- Healthcare infrastructures: Identifying the potential applications of new technologies and opportunities to support cross-sectoral, multidisciplinary care pathways.
- Artificial Intelligence: Extracting data and deriving insights by applying analytical methods to it. Examining issues regarding the adequate sensitivity and specificity of developed algorithms. Identifying potential applications in diagnostics, therapy and prevention.
The Chair of Health Informatics collaborates with the Fraunhofer Institute for Software and Systems Engineering ISST in Dortmund. It also supports the activities of MedEcon Ruhr, a network comprising over 170 organisations in the field of health management (represented on the Executive Board by Prof. Dr Sven Meister).
News
Research
Digital maturity in the health care system
Digitalisation is a transformative process that begins under specific initial conditions. But where does a doctor’s surgery or a hospital stand? Using qualitative and quantitative methods, the department is researching the variables that influence digital maturity, with a view to developing structured assessment tools.
Evidence on digital therapeutics (DTx) and digital health interventions (DHI)
Digitalisation boosts efficiency and effectiveness – that is the promise. However, there is a lack of structured survey and reporting tools for the standardised recording and description of improvements in effectiveness for DTx and DHi. The Chair uses tools such as Delphi studies and quantitative survey instruments to improve reporting with the aid of guidelines.
Digital and data skills
Competence is a key component of motivation, and not just from the perspective of self-determination theory. It is essential to ensure that the transformation process brought about by digitalisation receives support from people. We are researching assessment tools for digital and data literacy and developing training and professional development programmes, as well as Open Educational Resources.
Artificial Intelligence in the health care system
In collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Software and Systems Engineering in Dortmund, the department is developing AI-based approaches to improve diagnosis and treatment.
Digital maturity in the health care system
Digitalisation is a transformative process that begins under specific initial conditions. But where does a doctor’s surgery or a hospital stand? Using qualitative and quantitative methods, the department is researching the variables that influence digital maturity, with a view to developing structured assessment tools.
Evidence on digital therapeutics (DTx) and digital health interventions (DHI)
Digitalisation boosts efficiency and effectiveness – that is the promise. However, there is a lack of structured survey and reporting tools for the standardised recording and description of improvements in effectiveness for DTx and DHi. The Chair uses tools such as Delphi studies and quantitative survey instruments to improve reporting with the aid of guidelines.
Digital and data skills
Competence is a key component of motivation, and not just from the perspective of self-determination theory. It is essential to ensure that the transformation process brought about by digitalisation receives support from people. We are researching assessment tools for digital and data literacy and developing training and professional development programmes, as well as Open Educational Resources.
Artificial Intelligence in the health care system
In collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Software and Systems Engineering in Dortmund, the department is developing AI-based approaches to improve diagnosis and treatment.
Current research projects

Publications
All publications from the Chair of Health Informatics at UW/H are gradually being included in the university bibliography.
Pursuing a PhD at the Chair
The Chair’s interdisciplinary team supervises cumulative and monographic PhD theses on a variety of topics that bring together medical care and the health care system with issues relating to digitalisation. Methodologically, we frequently draw on qualitative and quantitative research, whilst also exploring newer possibilities offered by artificial intelligence.
In addition to a programme for doctoral studies for students at Witten/Herdecke University, we also offer external candidates the opportunity to pursue doctoral studies, for example on a part-time basis whilst working. The university offers various doctoral degrees for this purpose (Dr. med. / Dr. rer. medic.).
The Chair provides structured supervision based on a jointly developed timetable and work plan. The procedure is set out in a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), which supports doctoral candidates throughout their studies with forms and methodological guidance.
If you are interested, please do get in touch. We would be particularly pleased if you could bring forward ideas for a research area, which we would be happy to develop further with you. Please note that we do not offer short-term doctoral projects involving retrospective data analysis.
Current doctoral studies
- Aufermann, D.: Evaluation of carers’ experiences in the IT-supported KoCoN project with regard to the integration of video conferencing and the electronic patient record (ePA)
- Frings, J.: The diagnosis header in German hospital discharge letters – doctors’ expectations and preferences regarding structure, content and level of detail: an analysis using natural language processing (NLP) and survey methods
- Geller, S.: Design and development of a value-based consent model as an extension and supplement to the Meta Consent model
- Jakob, M.: Data literacy in healthcare
- Lenz, J.: User-centred conceptualisation of an AI dashboard: Cross-country case study – Part AUH
- Mahlmann, J.: Theory and practice – possibilities and approaches for evaluating the evidence base of digital health applications
- Mainz, A.: Development of an assessment tool for the professionally relevant digital skills of medical assistants
- Neunaber, T.: Dimensions for measuring digital maturity in outpatient healthcare, using general practitioners as an example
- Pantförder, M.: Design of an automated detection, reporting and guidance system for emergency services personnel
- Richter, I.: User-centred conceptualisation of an AI dashboard: Cross-country case study – Part AUH
- Rigo, D.: Digitisation of general practices in Germany: Expectations and experiences of healthcare professionals regarding the implementation process and the impact of selected digital solutions for general practices
- Rust, P.: Large Language Models – The Potential for Translating Complex Medical Information into Plain Language to Increase Health Literacy and Patient Activation
- Schmid, H.: Factors for Measuring the Benefits of Digitalisation Measures in Hospitals
- Schönleber, L.: Hybrid video consultations from the perspective of patients and from the perspective of doctors: A mixed-methods study
- Sevov, B.: Digitally-enabled solutions to promote mental health in society: Opportunities for those affected and the role of employers
- Tschorn, N.: Needs assessment and the use of intelligent systems to support nursing staff in presenting information and decision-making support using artificial intelligence in practice
- Weirauch, V.: Participatory approaches in the field of digital health: An investigation into patient and citizen involvement in development and evaluation processes in the context of digital health
- Wolf, E.: Utilising biomechanical data from clinical instrumental movement analyses to support physiotherapy decision-making for instrumentalists with musculoskeletal complaints
Completed doctoral studies
- Burmann, A.: The Hospital as an Organisation of Experts – An Investigation into the Causal Relationships and Impacts of the ‘Human Factor’ on Digital Transformation (2023)
- Freitag, B.: Financial aspects of reimbursable, certified mHealth applications in Germany – an examination of the pricing model and an analysis of health care economics effects (2025)
- Huettemann, R.: Digital health ecosystems to promote sustainable healthcare systems: Expectations of citizens, health insurance funds, insurers, service providers and start-ups/investors (2025)
- Soehnchen, C.: Design, implementation and evaluation of an education and health application for resource-poor regions: A case study from Kenya (2025)
- Uncovska, M.: Research into patient acceptance and use of digital health applications in Germany (2024)
- Lederer, L.: Inherent determinants of digital maturity in general practice: An analysis of the relationship between personality, digital maturity and the adoption of digital health solutions (2025)
- Beerbaum, J.: Patient-related factors influencing ‘digital health adaptation strategies’ in general practice: A quantitative survey study
Teaching
The Chair of Health Informatics offers a wide range of teaching and learning opportunities relating to digitalisation in the health care system.
Certificate Programme and the ‘Digital Health’ track
Digitalisation is changing the requirements for future healthcare provision. Due to legal obligations, no medical practice or hospital can afford to ignore digitalisation: video consultations, teleconsultations, electronic prescriptions and electronic patient records are already part of everyday healthcare practice.
The ‘Digital Health’ certificate programme offers those interested a completely new approach to these relevant topics as part of the UW/H Track Programme. Based on a blended-learning approach, it consists of self-study modules (90%), supplemented by face-to-face sessions (10%). Students decide when, where and at what pace they work through the modules. Each module consists of an instructional video, interactive exercises, helpful information material and a short test. There is also a consultation session for each module. The course is structured around 10 modules covering the following topics:
- Fundamentals of digitalisation and digital health
- Telematics infrastructure, telemedicine and teleconsultations
- Digital health and care applications
- Data and information systems in the health care system and interoperability
- Artificial intelligence and robotics
- Innovative sensor systems, PoC (point-of-care diagnostics) and medical technology
- Ethics and the legal framework for digitalisation in the health care system
- From process to care journey: cross-sectoral care
- Case Study: The digital medical practice
- Case Study: The Digital Hospital
The course is worth 5 ECTS credits. Upon successful completion of the final examination, you will also receive a ‘Digital Health’ certificate covering the content covered.
Please feel free to contact us if you are interested or have any queries.
Journal Club and Academic Work
Journal Club
The Journal Club in the eighth semester of the model degree programme in Medicine (state examination) focuses on research into digitalisation in the health care system. This involves examining qualitative and quantitative studies, such as those on the ‘use of artificial intelligence to identify clinical presentations’ or the ‘use of apps and other digital tools to improve medical care’.
Students learn about the specific characteristics of studies at the interface between medicine and digitalisation, as randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are rarely conducted in this field. The Journal Club coordinator assigns papers for discussion in groups. Students must submit their own proposals before the start of the session and agree them with the journal club coordinator.
Scientific work
Research generates and utilises a vast amount of data. Handling this data requires a high degree of responsibility on the part of researchers, as it may contain highly sensitive information about individuals. The German Research Foundation (DFG) therefore requires all research institutions to adhere to certain ‘fundamental principles of good scientific practice’, including the implementation of research data management (RDM).
Students are given an overview of the background to RDM as well as guidance on handling data.
Studium fundamentale
The following courses are offered on a rotating basis, depending on supply and demand.
Citizen Data Journey
Are we a ‘digital shadow’ within the digital systems of large corporations? Is there a ‘digital self’ of mine somewhere? It is undeniable that we already live in a society shaped by data. Data from which information is derived – including misinformation. So-called ‘deep fakes’ are generated using videos and images. On the other hand, greater availability of data also means we can develop new therapeutic and diagnostic methods. We all benefit from new channels of communication, and cash is now almost obsolete in many countries.
We’re working together with the participating students to develop their vision of a Citizens Data Journey: More information
Digital Patient Journey
Digital solutions are playing an increasingly important role in healthcare. But how does this change the patient journey, and how can we succeed in designing innovative solutions in such a way that patients and healthcare professionals are keen to use them? Together with the Dortmund-based company Adesso, we’ll learn creative methods such as design thinking and ideation, as well as the basics of the current state of digitalisation in Germany. Working in interdisciplinary groups, the students will design an innovation as a case study.
Fundamentals of Programming – Python for Software Development
Digital skills and ‘computational thinking’ are becoming increasingly relevant in today’s world. They not only assist with IT-related tasks but also provide support in everyday life, particularly when it comes to structured problem-solving. Decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction and algorithm design are the key skills taught as part of ‘computational thinking’. Using the ‘Python’ programming language, students learn fundamental programming concepts and gain an insight into its syntax and semantics. Specific practical examples, such as data processing using the programming language, are presented, and students develop their own simple applications.
Python and Artificial Intelligence: Implementing AI Projects Using Python
Whether in research or industry, data is being generated in ever-increasing quantities and used to carry out tasks. Whilst the use of small amounts of data may still be done manually, even a typical quantitative dataset from a research project requires the support of software.
Artificial intelligence (AI) methods are a particularly useful tool when it comes to recognising known patterns or searching for new ones. This Studium fundamentale course builds on the ‘Python’ foundation course and provides both theoretical and practical knowledge on the application of AI. This course is not suitable for those who already have experience in the fields of AI and Python. A basic understanding of the language’s elements is also required.
School of Nursing Science
Master’s programme Community Health Nursing (M. Sc.):
Digitalisation in Healthcare
Digitalisation supports, not least, the transfer of information. In community health nursing (CHN) settings in particular, situations arise in which stakeholders are separated by distance in terms of both space and time. For example, community health nurses communicate with other stakeholders for the purposes of healthcare provision.
Students learn the fundamentals of digitalisation, how to work with staff in conjunction with technology, telematics and telemedicine, artificial intelligence and digital nursing applications. The theoretical modules are supplemented by practical blocks, during which the technologies are tested and evaluated.
Master’s programme Pflegewissenschaft (M. Sc.):
Digitalisation in Nursing
The rising demand for care and the shortage of skilled staff are sometimes leading to increased pressure. Digitalisation is increasingly cited as a solution, but what potential can it truly unlock? In addition, the ‘Digital Healthcare and Care Modernisation Act’, amongst other factors, is driving the use of digital technologies, such as future ‘digital care applications’.
Throughout the teaching modules, the fundamentals of digitalisation and its effects are discussed. This covers trending topics such as artificial intelligence and robotics, as well as solutions already in use within the care sector to support documentation through speech recognition.
Project Management and data protection
A DIY chain advertises with the slogan: “Make it your project”. Whether it’s the introduction of (digital) innovations, the implementation of changes to work processes or the preparation of one’s own academic thesis – it makes sense to consider measurable objectives, the steps required to achieve them and the timeframe involved.
Students are provided with building blocks for setting up and managing projects. The course explains how large or small a project can be, what milestones are, and how to draw up a project plan.
Chair holder

Univ.-Prof. Dr.
Sven Meister
Chair Holder
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
Pferdebachstraße 11
58455 Witten
Room number: 1.010
Orcid ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0522-986X
The team at the Chair of Health Informatics

Sinnikka Schmalschläger
Secretariat
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
Pferdebachstraße 11 / Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50
58455 WittenRoom number: 1.009 / 2.356

Anne Mainz
Researcher
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
- +49 2302 926-78627
Orcid ID: 0000-0002-9790-6049
Pferdebachstraße 11
58455 WittenRoom number: 1.006

Timo Neunaber
Researcher
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
- +49 2302 926-78622
Orcid ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9787-9805
Pferdebachstraße 11
58455 WittenRoom number: 1.008

Dr. med. Priv.-Doz.
Leonard Fehring
Researcher
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
Orcid ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3322-3724
Heusnerstraße 40
42283 Wuppertal
Pascal Raszke
Researcher
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
Orcid ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0008-6538-0733
Pferdebachstraße 11
58448 WittenRoom number: 1.006

Vera Weirauch
Researcher
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
Orcid ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7473-6371

Dr. med. Priv.-Doz.
Maike Henningsen
Faculty Member
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics

Prof. Dr.
Felix Hoffmann
Faculty Member
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
Orcid ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5728-672X

Dr.
Falko Schulte , MaHM, M. Sc.
Faculty Member
Faculty of Health | Chair of Health Informatics
Orcid ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-6874-6072

Isabel Richter
Student Assistant
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
Pferdebachstraße 11
58455 Witten
Nina Pant
Student Assistant
Faculty of Health (School of Medicine) | Chair of Health Informatics
Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50
58448 Witten