Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020-2024

ABSTRACT

The proposed definition qualifies Digital Health as going beyond the rather simplistic meaning of the use of digital technologies in health. When understood as a broader field of knowledge and practice, Digital Health becomes more comprehensive and able to foster the diversity required to understand its multiple categories, functions and corresponding policy needs. It also ensures that digital technologies are understood as a means to an end. As a result, this definition also anchors Digital Health to matters linked to its practical application and demonstrated, measurable outcomes for improvements in health. The following Global Strategy on Digital Health is designed to help countries achieve this objective. It sets out a vision, strategic objectives and a framework for action to advance digital health. The Global Strategy is developed in collaboration with countries and other stakeholders, considering their cultures, values and interests. The Strategy leads to concrete actions within the proposed timeframe of four years, from 2020 to 2024. However, the strategic objectives aim to set the actions for a longer period and can be reviewed and revised after the proposed timeframe.The Strategy builds on previous WHA resolutions4 WHO global and regional reports on digital health, eHealth, mHealth, telehealth and other digital health related areas5,6,7 and a two-part ISO TC 215 Technical Specification8 . In particular, the National eHealth Strategy Toolkit9 , co-published by WHO and ITU, is an essential source of inspiration and methods. It provides an excellent and easy to use operational model, with step-by-step instructions that systematizes a simple but comprehensive framework for preparing and implementing National Digital Health Strategies