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digital health

South Korea Advances Medical Data Exchange and AI-Driven Healthcare Research

South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) is making significant strides in improving medical data exchange as part of its broader mission to enhance the use of health data across hospitals. These efforts include the ongoing development of the Korea Core Data for Interoperability and Transmission standards, alongside the implementation of the digital health record platform MyHealthway, now in its second phase. In addition to these initiatives, South Korea is set to launch a national project this year aimed at integrating the biological data of nearly 800,000 individuals. This ambitious project seeks to enhance health research and innovation by providing a vast pool of biological and medical data for analysis. The MOHW, in collaboration with the Korea Health Information Service, is also working on data-sharing agreements with major hospitals to promote the use of medical data for research purposes. This project aims to foster better utilization of medical information to drive forward medical innovations and improve patient outcomes. In a further push for innovation, an MOHW-led committee recently unveiled a four-year roadmap for establishing a robust medical AI research and development ecosystem. The roadmap emphasizes the need to invest in AI for essential medical care, including emergency services, major diseases, cancer treatment, and the development of AI-powered digital therapeutics, surgical robots, and AI-driven drug discovery. A key component of this roadmap is the creation of a unified healthcare data platform to support ongoing medical AI research. The platform is expected to streamline collaboration among researchers, hospitals, and tech developers, positioning South Korea as a leader in medical AI and healthcare innovation. Source: healthcareitnews

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Union Budget 2024: Health Sector Sees Marginal Increase, NHM Allocation Rises Amid Infrastructure Cuts

The Union Budget 2024, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, revealed a modest 1.7% increase in the health sector allocation, bringing the total outlay to Rs 87,656 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25. Despite the increase, major announcements for the health sector were noticeably absent. One of the significant allocations was for the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme, which provides a Rs 5 lakh cover to the poorest 40% of the population. The allocation for this scheme increased slightly from Rs 7,200 crore last year to Rs 7,300 crore this year. The National Health Mission (NHM) received a substantial boost, with its allocation rising to Rs 36,000 crore from Rs 29,000 crore last year. The NHM focuses on reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health services, non-communicable diseases control, and enhancing access to comprehensive primary health care. However, the PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) saw a reduction in its budget from Rs 4,200 crore last year to Rs 3,200 crore this year. The revised estimate for this mission was even lower at Rs 2,100 crore. PM-ABHIM was launched to improve health infrastructure, including health centers, labs, and critical care hospital blocks, especially during the pandemic. Another infrastructure mission, the PM Swasthya Suraksha Yojana, also faced budget cuts, with its allocation dropping from Rs 3,365 crore last year to Rs 2,200 crore this year. This scheme supports the establishment of new AIIMS and the upgradation of district hospitals. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Health Mission (ABDM), which aims to create a digital health record platform for every citizen, saw its budget reduced from Rs 341 crore last year to Rs 200 crore this year. Despite this, the government plans to roll out its U-Win vaccine management portal as part of a 100-day plan, linking it to ABHA accounts for seamless health records. The tele-mental health program’s allocation decreased from Rs 133.7 crore to Rs 90 crore. This program was launched in the 2022 Budget to address mental health issues post-Covid-19 through a network of 23 mental health centers of excellence under NIMHANS. In contrast to the interim Budget’s significant health sector announcements, such as expanding the Ayushman Bharat insurance scheme and promoting HPV vaccination, the current Budget made only minor mentions. The Finance Minister’s speech included a reduction in custom duty on three cancer drugs and components for manufacturing X-ray machines.

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Health Ministry Suspends Mandatory Linking of CGHS and ABHA IDs

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has announced the suspension of the compulsory linking of Central Government Health Services (CGHS) beneficiary IDs with Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) IDs until further notice. This decision, stated in an office memorandum signed by Satheesh YH, director of CGHS, follows a review of previous orders that had made the linkage mandatory. The mandatory linkage, originally set to be enforced from April 1 and later extended to June 30, aimed to integrate various government health schemes under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). However, practical issues, including data privacy concerns and the current state of technology infrastructure, appear to have influenced the decision to make the linkage optional for the time being. The CGHS provides comprehensive healthcare services to central government employees, pensioners, and their dependent family members, covering over 4.5 million people across 75 cities. In contrast, the ABHA ID is a unique 14-digit number identifying beneficiaries within India’s digital healthcare ecosystem. Despite the previous mandate, only 231,134 CGHS IDs had been linked with ABHA IDs by June 26, according to the CGHS dashboard. Experts have pointed out several issues with the mandatory linking of CGHS and ABHA IDs. Sunil Rao, COO of Sahyadri Group of Hospitals, highlighted data privacy concerns and the inadequacies in current technology infrastructure as potential reasons for the decision. An anonymous expert further noted that the government had not clearly outlined how digital records would be protected, despite assurances that records under ABHA ID would be encrypted and safeguarded under the Digital Protection of Data and Privacy Act. Rao welcomed the move, describing it as a balanced approach that allows time to address data security and system integration issues. He emphasized that making the linkage voluntary would enable the government to ensure infrastructural readiness and gain public acceptance before full implementation. The Health Ministry’s decision reflects a cautious approach, ensuring that when the policy is ultimately enforced, it will be with comprehensive preparedness and widespread support.

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Finance Says No to Health Request for $10-Million Fund to Meet G20 Pledge

The Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH), launched during India’s G20 Presidency, remains unfunded by India despite a $10-million pledge. This initiative, a key deliverable from the Health Ministers’ meeting in Gujarat on August 19 last year, was part of the New Delhi declaration. The GIDH, formally initiated on February 20, 2024, by then Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, is still awaiting India’s promised contribution. The delay stems from the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) under the Ministry of Finance, which has not approved the contribution despite India’s commitment. The GIDH, managed by the World Health Organization (WHO), aims to support national digital health transformations within a framework that respects data protection regulations. A source from the Health Ministry indicated the proposal is “under consideration,” but the DEA had previously rejected the request in July 2023 without specifying reasons. The DEA suggested that India should offer technical support instead of financial contributions to avoid creating “committed liabilities.” Despite this setback, the Permanent Mission of India (PMI) to the UN recommended making a “substantial financial commitment” to the GIDH in November 2023. Highlighting India’s role as a leader in digital health, the Health Ministry, with approval from the Health Minister, reconsidered the contribution. In comparison, Indonesia contributed $50 million to establish the Presidency Prevention, Preparedness Response (PPR) Financial Intermediary Fund (FIF) during its G20 Presidency. As Brazil currently heads the G20 Presidency, the GIDH remains a priority within the health sector.

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India to Showcase Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission at World Health Assembly

India will highlight its universal health coverage through Ayushman Bharat, public health emergency preparedness, and digital health transformations at the World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva from May 27 to June 1. Official sources confirmed on Wednesday that India will also present the Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube, an indigenous portable hospital equipped with innovative tools designed to enhance disaster response and medical support. The 77th session of the WHA, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), will feature representatives from 194 countries aiming to structure the global health ecosystem. This year’s theme is “All for Health, Health for All.” The Indian delegation, led by Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, will participate in various sessions and discussions. The WHA includes sessions in three main committees: Plenary, Committee A, and Committee B. The plenary session, attended by health ministers and heads of delegations from 194 nations, will open the Health Assembly. India will chair Committee A, which will facilitate discussions on universal health coverage, public health emergency preparedness and response, antimicrobial resistance, climate change, and sustainable financing for WHO. Committee B will focus on internal and external audit, budget, and financing matters concerning the WHO secretariat. In addition to the main sessions, at least 14 side events and multiple strategic roundtables will take place on the sidelines of the WHA, focusing on diverse health topics. These events will provide a platform for participants to share their thoughts on the future of the global health architecture. India’s presence at the WHA also includes leading and supporting the Regional One Voice initiative for the Southeast Asia region. This initiative advocates for well-being and health promotion, addressing social determinants of health, improving maternal, infant, and young child nutrition, and promoting the economics of health for all. India’s contributions to the WHA, including the showcase of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and the Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube, emphasize the country’s commitment to enhancing global health and disaster response capabilities. The participation aims to foster international collaboration and share India’s innovative health solutions with the global community.

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Cipla Boosts Digital Health with Major Investment in GoApptiv

Cipla Limited, a leading pharmaceutical company, has announced a further investment of approximately Rs. 42 crore in the digital tech company GoApptiv Private Limited. This move aims to bolster Cipla’s presence in the healthcare sector, particularly in underserved regions of India, by enhancing access to life-saving treatments. With the completion of this investment round, Cipla’s total stake in GoApptiv will rise to 22.99 percent on a fully diluted basis. This marks Cipla’s third investment in GoApptiv, demonstrating a continued commitment to supporting the digital tech company’s expansion in underpenetrated areas and product lines. The investment will be made in a combination of equity shares and compulsorily convertible preference shares. Cipla’s collaboration with GoApptiv has already yielded positive results in increasing penetration in underserved rural areas of India and addressing critical healthcare gaps where pharmaceutical coverage is limited. The expansion of this partnership aligns with Cipla’s strategy in the era of technology-driven healthcare, aiming to deliver patient-centric solutions and advance its digitization agenda for the next phase of growth. Umang Vohra, MD and Global CEO of Cipla Limited, emphasized the significance of the long-standing partnership with GoApptiv in addressing healthcare disparities. He stated, “In this era of technology-driven healthcare, this expanded investment will help us deliver patient-centric solutions and further strengthen our digitization agenda to drive Cipla’s next phase of growth.” GoApptiv, known for using technology to provide quality and affordable healthcare, shares Cipla’s commitment to making a positive impact on communities through innovative solutions. The current investment round is expected to deepen the collaboration between Cipla and GoApptiv, focusing on addressing healthcare disparities in underserved regions of India.

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Deepti Gaur Mukerjee Takes the Helm as CEO of National Health Authority

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The National Health Authority (NHA) has officially appointed Deepti Gaur Mukerjee as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The announcement was made on Wednesday, marking the beginning of a new era for the apex body responsible for overseeing the implementation of the government’s flagship health initiatives. Deepti Gaur Mukerjee, a 1993 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. The NHA took to social media, particularly Twitter, to share the news with the public. The official NHA Twitter account posted, “We are delighted to extend the warmest welcome to Smt. Deepti Gaur Mukerjee, IAS as CEO, [MP:93], NHA,” NHA tweeted.” We are delighted to extend the warmest welcome to Smt. Deepti Gaur Mukerjee, IAS [MP:93] as CEO, NHA. — National Health Authority (NHA) (@AyushmanNHA) December 13, 2023 Mukerjee takes over the reins from Dr. Ram Sewak Sharma, who stepped down earlier this year after completing his tenure on January 31, 2023. Dr. Sharma had been appointed as the CEO of the NHA in February 2021. During his tenure, the NHA played a crucial role in implementing key healthcare initiatives, including the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Yojana (AB PM-JAY), a flagship health insurance scheme, and the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), aimed at integrating digital health infrastructure across India. The appointment of Deepti Gaur Mukerjee is expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategic leadership to the NHA as it continues its mission to enhance healthcare accessibility and affordability for all citizens. As the nation grapples with ongoing healthcare challenges, Mukerjee’s role becomes pivotal in steering the NHA towards achieving its objectives and contributing to the overall improvement of India’s healthcare landscape. The healthcare community and the public eagerly await the impact of Mukerjee’s leadership on the nation’s health policies and initiatives.

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NHA and MoHFW to Host ‘Arogya Manthan’ Event in Delhi Celebrating Healthcare Milestones

The National Health Authority (NHA) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) are coming together to host a two-day event called ‘Arogya Manthan’ in Delhi. This event, taking place on September 25th and 26th at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, is designed to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and the second anniversary of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). Arogya Manthan 2023 will feature insightful discussions and deliberations on the challenges, trends, and best practices related to these two healthcare schemes. Union Minister of Health Mansukh Mandaviya will deliver the keynote address at the closing session of Arogya Manthan 2023. Other notable figures such as Prof SP Singh Baghel, Minister of State (Health and FW), Dr VK Paul, Member (Health) of Niti Aayog, Sudhansh Pant, Secretary (Health and FW), and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Health Authority (NHA) will also participate in the event. Minister of State (Health and FW) will preside over the inaugural session, and Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar, Minister of State (Health and FW), will address the audience virtually during the same session. Arogya Manthan will see active involvement from policymakers representing various States and Union Territories (UTs), national healthcare experts, academia, think tanks, industry professionals, and media representatives. Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, launched on September 23, 2018, has made a significant impact by providing free hospitalizations worth Rs. 69,000 crore to 5.5 crore beneficiaries, ensuring better health for countless underprivileged families and shielding them from catastrophic healthcare expenses. The ABDM, initiated on September 17, 2021, is a forward-looking government program that aims to establish a digital platform connecting different players in the healthcare ecosystem. In the past two years, more than 45 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA) have been created, with over 30 crore health records linked to these accounts. Both flagship healthcare initiatives are committed to offering accessible, available, affordable, and scalable healthcare to work towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in India. Arogya Manthan will feature various informative panel discussions and interactive sessions covering different aspects of AB PM-JAY and ABDM. These discussions will include topics such as Universal Health Coverage, Convergence, and Digital Health, along with sessions addressing the implementation of these two significant healthcare schemes.

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U-Win Portal Revolutionizes Routine Immunization Records

The government is gearing up to introduce the ‘U-Win’ portal, modelled after the successful Co-Win COVID-19 vaccine management system. This new platform is aimed at maintaining a digital registry of routine immunizations as part of the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). Currently, the U-Win initiative is undergoing a pilot phase in two districts of each state and Union Territory. The U-Win portal, similar to Co-Win, was initially launched on January 11 in 65 districts nationwide. At present, UIP vaccination records are managed manually, but U-Win will eliminate the need for physical records. It will facilitate the digitization of session planning and provide real-time updates on vaccination statuses. This will address challenges posed by multiple vaccines and doses, as well as the absence of an individual tracking mechanism. Furthermore, it aims to raise awareness among beneficiaries regarding session details, locations, and dates, especially in urban areas, while also addressing disparities in immunization coverage among states and Union Territories. A significant issue to tackle is the lack of record-keeping for immunizations administered at private health facilities. U-Win seeks to become the centralized repository for immunization service information, encompassing pregnancy details, newborn registrations, and vaccinations at birth. The system will also maintain live updates on vaccination statuses, delivery outcomes, and the planning of routine immunization sessions. It aims to provide personalized tracking for pregnant women and newborns, sending reminders for upcoming doses and following up on dropouts. The U-Win platform will empower healthcare workers and program managers with real-time data on routine immunization sessions and vaccine coverage, facilitating better planning and distribution. Additionally, it will offer information on upcoming sessions in specific areas for the following month and a list of beneficiaries due for vaccination. Pregnant women and children will receive vaccine acknowledgments and immunization cards linked to their Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA ID). States and districts will have access to a common database for efficient tracking and vaccination of beneficiaries. Citizens can also check nearby routine immunization sessions and book appointments through the platform. Lastly, all electronic vaccination certificates, similar to COVID vaccination certificates, will include pictures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As of August 28, U-Win has registered over 6.8 million beneficiaries and digitally tracked more than 13 million vaccine doses. This includes registrations for 33,58,770 infants aged 0-1 years, 20,98,338 children aged 1-5 years, and 14,20,708 pregnant women, with 1,32,60,903 doses being tracked digitally.

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G20 Health Ministers Unite for Resilient and Equitable Access to Affordable Medicines in Developing Nations

During the G20 Health Ministers meeting, a consensus emerged to establish stronger, more inclusive health systems that provide fair access to safe, quality, and affordable vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and medical countermeasures, particularly in low and middle-income countries and small island developing states. The outcome document, consisting of 25 paragraphs, received unanimous approval from all G20 delegations, except for paragraph 22, which focused on the geopolitical situation in Ukraine. According to the released outcome document after the meeting in Gandhinagar on August 19, there was agreement on creating a research and development network for vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. Additionally, plans were made to establish a platform for readily accessible open-source and interoperable digital solutions. Health ministers also expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations within the intergovernmental negotiating body (INB) for a legally binding WHO convention or international instrument related to pandemic prevention and preparedness, with a target of achieving this by May 2024. They recognized the need to fortify health systems against the impacts of climate change and pledged to prioritize the development of climate-resilient health systems. This includes creating sustainable and low-carbon/low greenhouse gas (GHG) emission healthcare systems and supply chains that offer high-quality care and mobilizing resources for resilient, low-carbon health systems. The G20 member countries committed to addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) comprehensively through a One Health approach. This entails strengthening governance, coordination, research and development, infection prevention and control, and improving awareness of AMR. Responsible use of antimicrobials across humans, animals, and plant sectors, along with preserving existing therapeutics through antimicrobial stewardship, was also emphasized. Moreover, the G20 recognized the potential of evidence-based traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) in public health delivery, provided that these practices are scientifically validated for safety and effectiveness. They also acknowledged the significance of digital health and the modernization of health data systems in improving healthcare accessibility and equity. The ministers recommended closer coordination among existing digital health initiatives to create a seamless digital health ecosystem, endorsing the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health to implement the WHO’s Global Digital Health Strategy 2020-2025. This initiative, managed by the WHO, aims to reduce fragmentation, promote interoperable open-source digital solutions, and support countries in implementing high-quality digital health systems with a people-centric focus.

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