WHO Report Reveals Digital Health Transformation in Europe and Global Opportunities for the Future
- Article
- 2023-09-11
In September 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a report based on data collected from a survey on the digitalization of healthcare in Europe in 2022. This comprehensive report provides insight into the state of digitalization in every European country. It is notable that all countries are experiencing accelerated growth in digitalization, but there are significant differences in the ability to actually achieve a transformation of healthcare. The WHO offers support to countries that have difficulty with this.
Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, emphasizes the fundamental aspects of transformation in the recent report. The report highlights the critical role of leadership in national digital health management, the important function of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and the emerging mobile health sector. Furthermore, the power of big data and data analytics for healthcare is highlighted, while addressing the essential debate about privacy.
The report includes multiple case studies from several European countries, highlighting the variety of digital health initiatives worldwide. The approach to digital transformation varies from country to country, with some countries being significantly more advanced than others. The WHO encourages bridging these differences.
Digital health has grown rapidly in recent years and offers opportunities to achieve more universal health coverage and make healthcare more efficient, accessible and effective. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for digital transformation in healthcare while revealing the diversity in countries' digital capabilities.
This report is based on data collected through the WHO European Region Digital Health Survey 2022. It highlights both progress and areas where improvements are needed. It identifies policy options, facilities and barriers to promote the successful implementation of digitalization in Member States.
Particular attention is paid to the mobile health sector (remote care), which offers significant opportunities for innovative healthcare applications, especially in developing countries. The WHO announced the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH), a global digital health initiative, at the G20 Summit in India in August 2023. The aim is to accelerate the implementation of the 'Global Digital Health Strategy 2020-2025' with support from G20 countries and partners.
The new report also highlights the importance of effective governance of digital health systems and encouraging national digital health governance bodies. WHO encourages Member States to develop intersectoral policies aimed at shared commitment, universal relevance and achieving health goals. In addition, it underlines that digital health technologies are crucial for preparing for public health emergencies, and addresses the need for guidelines for evaluating digital health interventions and creating a strong evidence base.
The report also highlights the importance of digital skills for healthcare providers and the general public, and calls for their integration into national health objectives. Bridging the digital divide is crucial to ensure no one is left behind. Legislation regarding EPDs is considered essential, with Member States encouraged to integrate local and regional EPD systems with national systems and invest sustainably in their development and maintenance.
Finally, in the conclusion, WHO emphasizes that now is the time to seize the opportunities of digital health for a future of improved, inclusive and resilient healthcare.
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