For accurate digital representation of original (e.g. medical) information we have to recall that any information is selection from a common set of possibilities. This one dimensional or multidimensional set is called “domain”. Letters and language vocabulary are only special examples of domains which lead to non-reproducible digital representation. Since introduction of the internet, however, it is technically feasible to define domains online. These “adapted domains” can be optimized in dependence of the application (e.g. medical diagnosis). Then all relevant features of the original information in this application can be represented and transported digitally by comparable and searchable “Domain Vectors” (DVs). This would be important e.g. for medical decision support, therefore the introduction of Domain Vectors is urgently recommended. The setup of a comfortable internet presence for definition of adapted domains (and Domain Vectors) would be a first step for this.

This commentary reflects on the launch of the new, state-of-the-art, mixed-ownership Guiqian International General Hospital in Guiyang and explores its potential as a template for digitally enabled hospitals of the future and economic development hubs.