Application of Information Technologies in Healthcare Education, Research and Practice: Lithuanian Case

Abstract

Technological advancements have profoundly reshaped healthcare systems, transforming workflows, communication, and education. This paper explores the integration of digital health innovations, including electronic health records (EHRs), artificial intelligence (AI), and virtual reality (VR), within Lithuanian healthcare institutions, educational settings and research initiatives. It emphasizes the pivotal role of health care professionals and nursing informatics in adapting to digital transformation, while also addressing key challenges such as digital competence, system usability, and implementation costs.

At Lithuania’s largest hospital, Kaunas Clinics, digital systems such as Hospital Information Systems (HIS, AREST), and automated monitoring tools are enhancing care coordination and clinical decision-making. A case study from Kėdainiai District Hospital highlights disparities in digital competence between nurses and nursing assistants, underscoring the need for systematic and personalized training programs.

In healthcare education, the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) incorporates simulation technologies, VR, and AI to strengthen students’ clinical reasoning and technical skills in safe, immersive environments. The paper also presents a collaborative initiative with Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) to develop an AI-and XR (extended reality)-based educational model focused on critical clinical scenarios, such as the management of anaphylactic shock. Despite technical and linguistic barriers, innovations like GPU-accelerated speech recognition and AI-driven virtual patients offer promising solutions to enhance health care students’ critical thinking and decision-making in acute care settings.

The authors conclude that the integration of advanced digital technologies and interdisciplinary innovations in both healthcare practice and education not only improves clinical workflows and patient outcomes but also transforms medical training. This ensures future professionals are equipped with the skills and tools essential for delivering high-quality care in modern clinical environments. The paper further highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in research as a driving force shaping the future of digital health.