India, sitting president of the G20, commits to bridging digital health divide

In his keynote address at the G20 session, Digital Health Innovations and Solutions to Aid Universal Health Coverage and Improve Service Delivery, Dr. V.K. Paul of India pledged his country’s digital health goods and infrastructure to help bridge the digital gap in global health. During the session, the group discussed how digital technologies can aid in achieving universal health coverage and combating health emergencies for all irrespective of location or means.

President of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and WHO Director of the Department of Digital Health Innovations added that inclusivity, equity and affordability are imperatives for this initiative. The Director also called on countries to invest strategically and collaborate to facilitate the cross-border transfer of global digital health goods and services.

Other officials called on international organisations to guide countries in areas such as adaptation to global health norms and digital health literacy. India’s Union Health Secretary encouraged all stakeholders to act with a sense of urgency.