The EPWUF-KI research project at the Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences in Krefeld has been awarded the “Ideas for Impact” 2026 health award. The team led by project leader Prof. Dr. Hubert Otten receives the main prize, endowed with 100,000 euros, for a hybrid AI system that significantly improves the treatment of diabetic foot syndrome in people with diabetes mellitus and relieves the burden on caregivers. In addition, the jury awarded a special prize of 25,000 euros to the Bremen project ProKIP.

The prize is awarded by the Bosch Health Campus on behalf of the Robert Bosch Stiftung and honors innovative approaches that strengthen the health of older people and make the healthcare system fit for the future through digital solutions and artificial intelligence. The award ceremony took place on 26 February 2026 in Berlin; Sascha Lobo gave the keynote.

In Germany, almost nine million people live with diabetes mellitus. One of the most serious complications is diabetic foot syndrome, which, if left untreated, can lead to chronic wounds and, in extreme cases, amputations. This is where the EPWUF AI system (relieving the burden of care in the field of wound treatment using the example of diabetic foot syndrome through a hybrid AI system) comes in: It combines sensor-based measurement technology, mobile AI applications and data-based support for patients, nurses and doctors.

At its heart is an intelligent sole that measures harmful pressure on wounds on the foot. The data is forwarded to those affected in real time via a smartwatch app, so that they can immediately identify and avoid stress peaks. Nurses and doctors access the values via a web application and adapt the therapy in a targeted manner. A mobile AI tool also facilitates regular wound measurement, documentation and evaluation.

Two clinical studies have confirmed its effectiveness: The intelligent dressing accelerates wound closure by up to 200 days. At the same time, AI-supported support in measurement, evaluation and decision-making noticeably relieves caregivers. Prof. Dr. Hubert Otten, Head of the eHealth Competence Center at the Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences, emphasized the practical suitability of the system.

In addition to the Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences, the Centre for Diabetology, Endoscopy and Wound Healing, CID GmbH, AKZ-Hauskrankenpflege in Cologne and PI Probaligence GmbH were involved in the project.

Prof. Dr. Mark Dominik Alscher, member of the board of management of the Bosch Health Campus, emphasized that the project offers a tailor-made solution to a widespread problem. The benefits for patients, nurses and doctors are recognizable and convincing on several levels. The jury was particularly impressed by the cost-effectiveness, the good transferability to other clinical pictures and the high level of feasibility. In addition to the prize money, the Bosch Health Campus is providing a further 80,000 euros for transfer and dissemination activities.

The special prize was awarded to the ProKIP project (Process Development and Support for the Use of AI in Nursing) at the University of Bremen. It accompanies and evaluates eight joint projects on the use of AI in nursing, examines benefits, data quality, ethical aspects and participatory approaches, and identifies success factors for successful practical transfer.

The awards underline the growing importance of digital and AI-based solutions for coping with age-related diseases and relieving the burden on the healthcare system.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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