Vitalis continues to grow and sets new records

With a growing number of attendees, stronger political engagement than ever before, and increasing international interest, Vitalis 2026 further cemented its role as the leading Nordic event shaping the future of healthcare.

– Our key topics are highly relevant and affect many people. You can feel that throughout the entire event this year, says Maria Sterner, Head of Vitalis.

Opening speakers, Sweden’s Minister for Social Affairs Jakob Forssmed and Anders Henriksson, Chair of the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions, set the tone for Vitalis 2026 — an event representing the full spectrum of the healthcare and social care sector.

Both emphasized the shared responsibility involved in healthcare digitalization and highlighted Vitalis as an important forum for discussions about the future of healthcare and social care.

In his keynote address, Anders Henriksson captured the essence of the event:
– Vitalis is a place where expertise, ambition, and responsibility come together.

Another Record-Breaking Year for Attendance

Over four days, 6,900 participants explored an extensive content covering everything from the latest AI technology to topics such as civil preparedness and total defence.

An increasing number of visitors from municipalities are finding their way to Vitalis — something clearly reflected in this year’s conference agenda.

– In my role as a development manager, I’m taking away new perspectives, especially around creating an inclusive work environment, which is something I care deeply about, says Britta Hedén from the Municipality of Arvika.

Strong Diversity Among Exhibitors

This year’s exhibitors included Microsoft, Atea, and AstraZeneca.

– Unlike many other trade fairs, Vitalis keeps growing every year. Everyone I meet here is curious and open to dialogue, says Ann-Charlotte Adolfsson, Healthcare Client Executive at Microsoft.

– The best thing about Vitalis is the dynamic between different stakeholders. Suppliers, healthcare providers, authorities, and politicians all come together to discuss what needs to happen next, says Malin Sölsnaes, Head of Digitalization for Healthcare and Social Care at Atea.

– Vitalis is the event I prioritize above all others. Everyone in the industry gathers here, and the conversations reach a different level because of the cross-functional meetings, says Pelle Axelsson, Partnership Manager at AstraZeneca.

High-Level Political Presence

As Sweden enters an election year, healthcare has emerged as one of the most important issues for voters. Political interest in this year’s conference was stronger than ever.

This was especially evident during the opening ceremony, where the Minister for Social Affairs delivered the opening address, followed by a panel discussion featuring senior representatives from all parliamentary parties.

Several high-level meetings were also held during the event with both regional and national politicians.

– We are very pleased that politicians at the highest levels recognize the value of being here. It strengthens our position as the Nordic region’s leading meeting place for the future of healthcare and social care, says Maria Sterner, Head of Vitalis.

But while the presence of senior politicians is important, the broad representation across the sector remains the true hallmark of Vitalis.

– That is really the strength of the event. We bring together everyone from those working hands-on with systems and solutions, to those developing and selling them, along with decision-makers from municipalities and regions, all the way up to ministerial level, says Maria Sterner.

Two Municipalities and One Startup Received Awards

Three awards were presented during the event.

The Healthtech Award recognizes a health technology solution that has demonstrated real value for healthcare services. This year’s winner was Mirno, an Icelandic company developing AI-powered virtual patients for medical education.

The title of eHealth Municipality of the Year was awarded to the Municipality of Partille. The jury stated:
“The Swedish eHealth Municipality of the Year 2026 award goes to a municipality that has shifted the focus from technology itself to creating value in residents’ everyday lives. Through an impressive range of digital supervision solutions, smart sensors, medication dispensers, and automation, the municipality demonstrates concrete results where modern technology truly makes a difference.”

The Vitalis Scholarship aims to highlight innovative solutions developed by professionals within healthcare and social care. A record-breaking 49 entries were reviewed by the jury, with three finalists presenting their solutions during the opening ceremony.

In the end, two delighted representatives from the Municipality of Lund took the stage to receive the award for their work with mobile safety alarms.

– It feels absolutely fantastic. We hope this can inspire other municipalities to follow what we’ve accomplished, says Niclas Snygg, Head of Operations for the Municipality of Lund.

Alongside Vitalis, the global conference GCPCC was hosted by the University of Gothenburg. Next year, Vitalis will take place on 24-27 May 2027 at the Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre in Gothenburg.

Photo: Natalie Greppi