BACKGROUND:
Healthcare technology (HCT) is rapidly transforming clinical practice. This shift requires digital adaptability—the ability to switch flexibly between direct patient care and HCT. While student midwives and nurses belong to a generation familiar with technology, applying HCT in patient interactions may be a challenge.

OBJECTIVES:
To explore and define the concept of digital adaptability among Flemish (student) midwives and nurses and to assess their current level of digital adaptability.

METHODS:
Structuration Theory and Intuitive Logics Scenario Planning were applied to conceptualize future needs. A modified e-Delphi study identified core competencies, followed by factor analysis to reveal key dimensions. Finally, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among midwifery and nursing students in Flanders to assess their digital adaptability.

RESULTS:
Scenario planning emphasized the urgent need for digitally adaptable professionals. The e-Delphi study identified 29 competencies defining digital adaptability. Factor analysis revealed two key dimensions: "Me and the digital world" and "Me, the digital world, and my patient". Survey results indicated a gap between students’ personal use of HCT and its application in patient care. The greatest learning potential lies in the dimension "Me, the digital world & my patient", highlighting that students currently acquire these competencies mainly during clinical placements rather than through formal education.

CONCLUSIONS:
Digital adaptability is an emerging, multifaceted competence essential for future healthcare professionals. The identified competencies form a benchmark for education and training. However, current students struggle to integrate HCT into patient interactions. Educational programs must provide realistic simulation-based opportunities to bridge this gap.

KEY MESSAGE:
To bridge the gap between personal and clinical use of technology, students must be supported through simulation-based learning and clinical practice that fosters confident and reflective use of HCT at the bedside and strengthens the core dimension "Me, the digital world, and my patient". Digital technology/AI 1 (including three-minute presentation competition)