From the Evolution of Information Systems for Health to the Digital Transformation of the Health Sector. IS4H Conference Report

Abstract

The Information Systems for Health (IS4H) Conference, From the evolution of Information Systems for Health to the Digital Transformation of the Health Sector, aimed to create a dialogue of reflection with the countries of the Region of the Americas on their experiences regarding their information systems and digital health during the last four years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discussions at the preparatory sessions focused on the strategic goals of the IS4H Plan of Action. The approximately 150 participants recognized the importance or working together with a common goal and under the eight principles presented by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) for the digital transformation of the health sector: (i) achieve universal connectivity in the health sector; (ii) co-create digital public health goods for a more equitable world; (iii) accelerate progress toward inclusive digital health; (iv) implement open, sustainable, interoperable digital information and health systems; (v) mainstream human rights across all areas of digital transformation in health; (vi) participate in global cooperation on artificial intelligence and any emerging technology; (vii) establish mechanisms for the confidentiality and security of information in the digital public health setting; and (viii) design a renewed public health architecture for the age of digital interdependence. This report summarizes the discussions, agreements, and main conclusions of the conference, at which PAHO launched a call to action to position the health sector in the vanguard of digital transformation in public health in the Region.