From Today to Tomorrow: Leveraging Digital Health to Move toward Health for All

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Health Systems Research
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The need for equitable digital health solutions for underserved populations is critical.
• Existing health systems face challenges in interoperability, change management, and service delivery harmonization.
• A learning health system (LHS) approach offers a framework for iterative improvement and adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore essential digital health concepts for underserved communities.
• To highlight cross-cutting themes for effective health system implementation.
• To demonstrate the utility of a learning health system (LHS) approach using a case study.

Main Methods:

• Review of cross-cutting themes in digital health implementation.
• Analysis of a learning health system (LHS) framework.
• Case study examination of HealthLink BC's 811 as a digital front door.
• Incorporation of software industry concepts and participatory processes.

Main Results:

• Harmonizing patient journeys and engaging health professionals are key.
• Integrating micro, meso, and macro levels of health services delivery is essential.
• Iterative evaluation fosters continuous improvement and learning within health systems.
• A learning health system (LHS) approach, exemplified by HealthLink BC's 811, can drive meaningful system change.

Conclusions:

• Adopting a learning health system (LHS) approach facilitates iterative growth and evolution in digital health.
• Collaborative ecosystems and stakeholder engagement are vital for successful implementation.
• The findings support the ongoing pursuit of Health for All through strategic health system development.