The World Health Organization (WHO) and the G20 India presidency have jointly unveiled the pivotal Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH), a groundbreaking move towards revolutionizing global healthcare. This historic initiative was announced during the Health Minister’s Meeting at the G20 Summit, hosted by the Government of India.
The Global Initiative for Digital Health (GIDH), or “guide,” functions as a dynamic platform under WHO. It executes the Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020–2025. WHO acts as the Secretariat, merging global standards, best practices, and resources to expedite global digital health transformation.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General, thanked G20 nations and the India G20 Presidency. He stressed cross-party cooperation among the G20, partners, and organizations to surpass individual capabilities. Dr. Tedros reiterated WHO’s commitment to enhancing capacities.
India’s Union Health Minister, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, highlighted the G20 Health Working Group’s significance. He praised G20’s recognition and collective efforts. India’s G20 Presidency achieved launching the Global Initiative on Digital Health. Over 120 WHO Member States adopted digital health policies, fueled by the 2005 WHO eHealth resolution. It paved the way for the WHO Global Strategy on Digital Health. Amid COVID-19, digital health usage surged. Yet, nations need support to transition from experimental initiatives to holistic systems.
In conclusion, WHO-G20 collaboration in launching the Global Initiative on Digital Health marks a transformative healthcare juncture. Nations embrace a digital-powered healthcare era, fostering accessible, efficient, equitable care.