Horizon scanning is a structured process for identifying at an early stage opportunities, risks and trends that are potentially relevant to Swissmedic. The aim is to recognise developments before they have a direct impact and use them as impetus for strategic and regulatory adaptations.
Systematic early recognition of regulatory developments
Thematic areas of observation
Five key parameters are systematically monitored as part of horizon scanning:
- Regulatory: legislation, official practices, international initiatives
- Scientific/technological: new therapeutic approaches, manufacturing processes, artificial intelligence
- Economics and business: market trends, key research areas, supply chain developments
- Government and politics: health policy, international relations, professional/industry associations’ activities
- Social: changes in values, digitalisation, demographic trends
Aims of horizon scanning
- To identify relevant developments at an early stage
- To proactively shape regulatory framework conditions
- To identify potential strategic courses of action
- To structure knowledge internally and present it in a suitable form for decision-making
- To strengthen cooperation and international coordination
- To present information transparently
Organisation at Swissmedic
- All Swissmedic employees can submit observations
- A cross-sectoral Horizon Scanning Specialist Group assesses their relevance and defines measures.
- The scientific staff responsible for networking / horizon scanning coordinate the process, follow up priority topics and prepare reports.
- The Management Board makes strategic decisions based on the recommendations.
Incorporation into strategy and planning
- Findings are incorporated into the quadrennial environmental analysis for the strategy process
- They provide input for annual operational planning
- In this way, horizon scanning supports proactive management of the Agency.