Digital health strategy receives the software extension
The global digital health strategy will continue until 2027. The World Health Assembly approved the extension, allowing every healthcare login another two years to insist that the password recently changed.
Member states also approved work on a new phase for 2028 to 2033. Therefore, digital health now has a roadmap longer than the average appointment booking journey.
The strategy aims to use technology to improve health systems. However, every noble digital ambition must first pass the ancient test of whether two hospital computers agree that one patient exists.
“Interoperability remains our highest aspiration,” said Dr Tabitha Refresh, Director of Clinical Loading Circles. “At present, the blood-pressure monitor and printer are maintaining diplomatic relations through a fax.”
Meanwhile, the Office of Connected Care unveiled a dashboard showing that dashboards are available. Staff celebrated by exporting the result into a spreadsheet and emailing it to themselves.
Digital systems can improve access, evidence and coordination. Still, technology only helps when staff can use it and patients can reach it. A shiny app cannot treat anyone while displaying scheduled maintenance.
Finally, the next phase will attempt to connect data, services and people. Success will arrive when a clinician opens one screen and does not immediately ask which of the other seven screens has the useful bit.
Read the real story: WHO’s update on the digital health strategy.
