Transforming Health Systems Through Good Digital Health Governance

Abstract

Information and communication technology (ICT) in the health system, also known as digital health, can accelerate health system reforms, leading to better-quality, efficient, and accessible patient-centered care. Digital health has been acknowledged by the World Health Organization as a key building block for universal health coverage and the health-related Sustainable Development Goals, and many countries are implementing solutions, such as digital disease surveillance systems, electronic medical records, and social health insurance payment processes. However, countries lack a holistic approach to digital health, which requires good governance for successful implementation and sustainability throughout the health system. Good digital health governance is the foundation that is required to coordinate stakeholders and policies that enable effective ICT for a well-functioning health system. Its ultimate objective is to maximize the achievement of health outcomes. ICT governance frameworks are already in use in various sectors and industries. They have helped to accelerate its transformational power in their respective industries, but the health sector still lags behind in adopting an ICT governance framework. This hinders the transformational effect of digital health investments. Together with partners, the Asian Development Bank developed a health ICT governance architecture framework (HIGAF). Consultations and close collaboration with health sector ICT experts in the region further refined the framework, leading to the creation of HIGAF 2.0, designed specifically to meet the evolving needs of developing member countries in the region. HIGAF 2.0 enables countries to prioritize the structures and processes that must be established to enable an enterprise (system-wide) approach, and cost-effective investments in digital health.