1 February 2025
Healthcare professionals, particularly those working in hospital settings, operate under immense pressure. Surgical pathways are especially demanding, requiring long hours, complex procedures, and high-stakes decision-making. These factors contribute to rising burnout rates, stress-related illnesses, and workforce attrition, which ultimately impact both healthcare professionals and the quality of patient care. The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed systemic vulnerabilities, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive, sustainable support systems.
In response to these challenges, the KEEPCARING project was launched to enhance the resilience and well-being of healthcare professionals across Europe. The initiative takes a holistic approach by integrating:
Non-digital tools
Digital interventions
AI-powered solutions
These solutions are designed to support healthcare workers at all levels—individuals, teams, and institutions—helping them manage stress and improve job satisfaction. The project also extends its focus to medical students and trainees, preparing them for the high-pressure environments they will encounter in their future careers.
Corrette Ploem specializes in the legal dimensions of medical research and emerging health technologies, including AI and whole genome analysis. Her appointment to the KEEPCARING Advisory Board will strengthen the project’s approach to legal and ethical considerations in implementing new healthcare support strategies. Her expertise will ensure that the project’s interventions align with regulatory frameworks and uphold the rights and well-being of healthcare workers.