In alignment with India’s G20 presidency priorities, the World Health Organization (WHO) initiated the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH) in 2023. This initiative aims to facilitate the sharing of knowledge and digital health products among nations.
Key Participants
At the virtual launch event of GIDH, notable figures such as Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and India’s representative to the UN, Arindam Bagchi, addressed the attendees.
Components of GIDH
The GIDH functions as a network of networks and comprises four primary components:
- Country Needs Tracker: A mechanism to monitor and address the specific digital health needs of each country.
- Country Resource Portal: An interactive map showcasing available digital health resources within each country.
- Transformation Toolbox: A repository of quality-assured digital tools aimed at facilitating digital health transformation.
- Knowledge Exchange: A platform for the exchange of insights and best practices in digital health.
Objectives and Vision
Mandaviya emphasized the significance of establishing an institutional framework for digital health, a pivotal outcome of India’s G20 presidency. The initiative seeks to democratize digital health technologies, particularly benefiting countries in the Global South.
Implementation and Achievements
During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital transformation gained momentum, with India leveraging its CoWIN platform for case tracking and vaccination drives. Initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and E Sanjeevni teleconsultation platform have significantly contributed to digital healthcare delivery.
WHO’s Role and Support
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the WHO’s commitment to supporting countries through GIDH by addressing their needs, aligning resources, and providing quality-assured products. The aim is to mitigate fragmentation and ensure interoperability in digital health systems.
Potential of Digital Health
Tomas Lamanauskas from the International Telecommunication Union underscored the vast potential of digital health, given the widespread availability of connectivity globally.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the primary objective of the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH)?
- A) Facilitating the sharing of knowledge and digital products among nations.
- B) Enhancing traditional healthcare practices.
- C) Improving pharmaceutical supply chains.
- D) Promoting physical fitness initiatives.
- Which of the following is not a component of GIDH?
- A) Country Needs Tracker
- B) Country Resource Portal
- C) Transformation Toolbox
- D) Vaccination Distribution Network
- Who emphasized the significance of establishing an institutional framework for digital health during the launch event?
- A) Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
- B) Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya
- C) Arindam Bagchi
- D) Tomas Lamanauskas
- What platform did India utilize for case tracking and managing vaccination drives during the COVID-19 pandemic?
- A) CoWIN platform
- B) Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
- C) E Sanjeevni teleconsultation platform
- D) WHO Digital Health Portal
- According to Tomas Lamanauskas, what percentage of the global population has access to a 3G connection?
- A) Nearly 10%
- B) Nearly 25%
- C) Nearly 50%
- D) Nearly 90%