9 September 2024, Kathmandu
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has launched a new Digital Health Position Paper (2024-2029), outlining its strategic vision for leveraging digital innovations to strengthen health systems worldwide.
USAID Digital Health Position Paper
This comprehensive document aims to promote equitable access to safe, secure, and high-quality healthcare services through digital transformation.
The position paper builds upon the success of the Digital Health Vision (2020-2024) and outlines four key strategic priorities to guide digital health investments over the next five years:
- Assess and Strengthen a Country’s Digital Health Enabling Environment: Ensure countries have the necessary infrastructure and policies to support digital health systems.
- Align Digital Health Investments with National Strategies: Align investments with a country’s health priorities and goals.
- Support National Digital Health Architecture: Work with countries to build a scalable, integrated digital health system.
- Promote the Use of Global Goods: Leverage global digital health tools and technologies that can be adapted for use across multiple countries.
The position paper also introduces six key practices based on lessons learned from previous digital health initiatives:
- Person-Centered Digital Systems: Design digital health systems to meet the needs of patients and healthcare providers.
- Data Standards for Integrated Service Delivery: Require standardized data to facilitate the delivery of integrated health services.
- Country-Led Governance: Encourage countries to take ownership of their health system’s digital transformation.
- Strengthen Data Privacy and Cybersecurity: Ensure strong data protection and cybersecurity practices.
- Engage with Local Partners: Collaborate with local stakeholders, including the private sector, to foster innovation and sustainability.
- Invest in Shared Resources: Promote the development of shared digital health tools and resources.
USAID’s commitment to digital health transformation is evident in its dedication to harnessing the power of digital innovations to improve healthcare access worldwide. By implementing these priorities and practices, USAID aims to unlock new opportunities to advance health systems and promote well-being across the globe.
For more: USAID Digital Health Position Paper