Rohit Shishodia
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released guidelines for the use of digital health technologies that countries can use to improve the health of its citizens.

The guidelines say that health departments across the globe need to respond to the increased visibility and availability of information. There is need to assure people that their data on diseases is safe and is not being put at risk as they have information on sensitive health topics including sexual health issues.

The guidelines emphasize the importance of providing supportive environment for training and dealing with unstable infrastructure as well as policies to protect privacy of individuals.

They also encourage governments to review and adapt to existing conditions if they want digital tools to drive tangible changes and provide guidance on taking privacy considerations on access to patient data.

Dr Soumya Swaminathan, Chief Scientist, WHO, pointed out that use of digital platforms offers new opportunities to improve people’s health.

“But at the same time evidence also highlights challenges in the impact of some intervention,” added Dr Swaminathan.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General, WHO, said that using the power of technologies is necessary for achieving universal health coverage.

Dr Ghebreyesus added that digital technologies are crucial tools to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable population.