Embracing diversity in the digital transformation of primary healthcare

The use of information and communication technologies for health constitutes a strategic ally to the sustainable development goals and attaining universal health coverage through enabling equitable access to high quality and affordable health care services. The omnipresence of mobile devices and sensors, the increasing availability of data and computational power, and the breakthroughs in imaging and genomics, are creating a perfect storm that is bound to transform health care profoundly. At the population level, the coordination of disease control and prevention programmes is facilitated, cost-effective interventions are implemented, and ultimately the quality of life of our communities is enhanced. EHealth also plays a significant role in the delivery of people-centred and integrated health services, empowers individuals to make informed decisions and self-manage their health needs. For the first time in history, the individual is placed at the centre, has timely and affordable access to data, knowledge and tools, and health care is tailored for his/her diverse background, context and needs. A second perspective to the digital revolution is how our own discipline is transformed. As technology is a catalyst for sustainable, large scale social change, health care has the opportunity to invest in inter-professional collaboration, and leverage a diverse range of expertise, stakeholders and resources to expand its horizons and tackle old and future challenges.