The topic of private networks in healthcare is gaining urgency – and for good reason. At the most recent Mobile World Congress (MWC), the world’s premier telecom event organized by the GSMA, Druid had the privilege of presenting with our longstanding partner KPN, represented by Paul Cobben, at the Digital Health Summit. Together, we demonstrated private 5G in action, showcasing the growing maturity and relevance of private cellular technology in healthcare environments.

Across countries like the Netherlands, the UK, and Sweden, progressive spectrum policies have enabled early deployment of 3GPP-compliant private networks. Hospitals and care facilities are now embracing private 5G not just as a networking upgrade but as mission-critical infrastructure. Unlike WiFi or legacy LTE systems, private 5G offers ultra-reliable, low-latency, and secure connectivity required for life-saving applications in complex, high-interference environments.

KPN’s Paul Cobben on stage at the GSMA Digital Health Summit at MWC Barcelona 2025

In our joint presentation, KPN shared its vision on current and emerging applications, as well as the distinct advantages that modern 5G technology brings to healthcare use cases including AI. Today’s private 5G networks go far beyond supporting voice or nurse call systems. They’re enabling a new generation of connected care: from telemedicine and remote diagnostics to real-time asset tracking, patient telemetry, and remote or remotely assisted surgery.

These capabilities are not theoretical. With 5G’s low latency and edge computing integration, we now see AI-assisted remote surgery, real-time monitoring of chronic conditions, and on-site analysis of MRI and ECT imaging—transforming how care is delivered, especially in resource-constrained or rural environments.

To help healthcare providers, policymakers, and technology leaders understand this shift, Druid has published a whitepaper dedicated to private networks in healthcare. Rather than offering abstract trends, it provides tangible examples of how 5G is reshaping clinical operations, patient safety, and digital health innovation—right now.

Private 5G is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s becoming the invisible but essential backbone of resilient, responsive, and intelligent healthcare systems worldwide.

Download the whitepaper here: Link to Private Networks in Healthcare Industry Whitepaper