Australia has unveiled a 5-year plan, the National Digital Health Strategy 2023-2028, to empower citizens in managing and enhancing personal health through digital technology.
Launched by the Australian Digital Health Agency, the strategy aims for a connected, secure, inclusive, and ethical healthcare system, embracing innovations like wearable technology and AI-driven genomic research.
CEO Amanda Cattermole said collaborative efforts, involving extensive consultations with consumers, carers, healthcare providers, and technology innovators were behind the strategy.
The strategy aligns with the era of precision medicine, reflecting a shift towards personalized and preventative healthcare.
Dr Steve Hambleton, Chief Clinical Advisor, highlighted technological advances already improving health outcomes and reducing waste, noting that digital tools can augment clinical benefit and consumer engagement. The strategy envisions four key outcomes: being digitally enabled, person-centred, inclusive, and data-driven.
It anticipates a future where health services are connected, safe, and sustainable, Australians are empowered with information and tools for self-care, and equitable access to health services is ensured.
The strategy, available for download, aims to shape a future where Australians can access tailored digital healthcare benefits. Aligned with the growing importance of digital health, the strategy establishes groundwork for an ever-improving and sustainable health system. The Australian Digital Health Agency is jointly funded by the Australian Government and all state and territory governments. For further information, visit www.digitalhealth.gov.au.