Strategic partnerships
National and international partnerships provide access to new knowledge, methods and funding opportunities that can contribute to the development of healthcare in North Denmark Region.
Rooted in clinical practice, we collaborate across disciplines and organisations to explore new opportunities in
healthcare.
Learn more about our current areas of focus and explore examples of current and past strategic partnerships.
Photographer: Maria Ellermann
Strategic partnerships
Biomarkers
Aalborg University Hospital has strong research expertise in biomarkers. Biomarkers are measurable biological indicators – such as proteins, genetic markers or small particles found in blood and other body fluids – that can provide information about disease, the body’s response to disease and the effects of treatment. They can contribute to earlier and more accurate diagnosis, improved risk assessment and more personalised treatment.
The Innovation Clinic supports this work with a focus on creating a coherent pathway from research and development to commercialisation through collaboration across research, clinical practice and industry – both nationally and internationally.
As part of this work, the Innovation Clinic launched the BIC project, which provides design input and recommendations for the development and scaling of biomarkers while strengthening collaboration between the hospital’s laboratories and industry. Overall, this work has laid the foundation for closer dialogue with INOVATE LABS and Aalborg University, as well as a stronger international network, including through collaboration with the Wyss Institute at Harvard University.
Developing a support tool for biomarker development and clinical translation
Contact
Anja Damgaard
Project Manager, The Innovation Clinic acnd@rn.dk
BIC

Development of a Support Tool for Biomarker Development in Clinical Products
Integrated Healthcare
Denmark’s healthcare reform is accelerating the development of what in Denmark is referred to as det nære
sundhedsvæsen – a more integrated healthcare system in which more care is delivered closer to citizens and across
hospitals, municipalities and general practice. This calls for new ways of organising and collaborating, as well as
solutions that support integrated care pathways and make better use of healthcare resources.
Innovation has an important role to play in this transformation. Working closely with municipalities across North Denmark Region, the Center for General Practice, Aalborg University and industry, the Innovation Clinic has launched a number of initiatives addressing specific needs across healthcare sectors and exploring new ways of delivering care closer to citizens.
Helping elderly stay well hydrated
One example focuses on helping older people stay well hydrated. Over the next 20 years, the number of older people is expected to increase significantly, while more people will be living with one or more chronic conditions. This will increase demand for healthcare services and put further pressure on healthcare resources. At the same time, a smaller workforce will mean fewer healthcare professionals available to meet growing healthcare needs.
Contact
Maria Brændstrup Kristensen
Project Manager, The Innovation Clinic maria.kristensen@rn.dk
AI
Digitalisation and the use of artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly important in the Danish healthcare system. The Innovation Clinic supports the adoption of digital solutions and AI in clinical practice, with a focus on where they can contribute to better diagnostics, treatment and delivery of healthcare services.
One current example is NextCare, where the Innovation Clinic works closely with European hospitals, municipalities and patient organisations to explore how AI and digital solutions can support the healthcare of the future, with a particular focus on rural areas, integrated healthcare and care delivered closer to home.
Another example is CAIDX, where the Innovation Clinic coordinated the development of the Clinical AI Pathway Toolbox – a practical tool designed to support the development of clinical AI solutions from the early stages through to implementation and scaling.
CAIDX
The project developed the Clinical AI Pathway Toolbox – a practical tool that supports the development of clinical AI solutions from early-stage development through to implementation and scaling.
Resiliens
The Danish healthcare system is facing significant challenges in the years ahead, increasing the need for healthcare innovation. At the same time, Denmark is responding to a changing security environment, including the war in Europe and the need to strengthen defence capabilities – including military medical services.
In response to these challenges, the Danish Defence Medical Command, Aalborg University Hospital and prehospital care in North Denmark Region have established a collaboration to explore how expertise, knowledge and facilities can be shared across sectors. The aim is to create value for both defence and healthcare and strengthen the resilience of Danish society as a whole.
The collaboration focuses on strengthening dialogue and cooperation within:
- Technology development
- Simulation and research collaboration
- Recruitment, internships and continuing professional development
Contact
Jacob Ravn
Head of Innovation, Aalborg Hospital University Denmark jacob.ravn@rn.dk
Past initiatives
HAePPI was an Erasmus+ project that developed a training programme on Public Procurement of Innovation (PPI) in the habitat and e-health sectors.
Learn more about HAePPI