The World
Health Organization's (WHO) Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH) has called
for political commitment to transform health systems through
digital public infrastructure (DPI). The call made at the just-ended United
Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is backed by the UN's Pact for the Future,
which advocates for collaboration among governments, the private sector, and
civil society to leverage DPI in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs).
The World
Health Organization believes that while technology has the potential to
revolutionize healthcare, it's the political will that turns this potential
into reality. Many countries lack the necessary governance structures,
financing, and foundational architecture to transition from fragmented digital
initiatives to integrated ecosystems.
WHO has been at
the forefront of global digital health efforts for over two decades, providing
evidence and guidance for meaningful investments in digital transformation.
Success stories like India's Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and Kenya's 2023
Digital Health Bill demonstrate what's possible when political leaders commit
to digital health transformation.
The WHO, in
partnership with organizations like the World Bank, ITU, UNDP, and UNICEF, is
advocating for sustained investment in DPI. An estimated $12.5 billion is
needed over the next five years for low- and lower-middle-income countries.
Through GIDH,
the World Health Organization is helping countries build momentum, ensuring
that digital health becomes a cornerstone of equitable, resilient health
systems worldwide.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
