Digital health programs have generated a valuable database and a set of learnings collected by the report „Reimagining Latin American health systems in the digital age“, prepared within the framework of the initiative of the Elcano Royal Institute.
In this sense, the objective of the study is to produce evidence on the barriers and facilitators in the implementation of public policies aimed at promoting the digital transformation of the health sector in four countries: Argentina, Uruguay, Chile and Mexico.
Looking back, the pandemic made clear three fundamental lessons. In principle, health as a strategic issue for the stability and development of different countries and regions. Likewise, one of its approaches should address a comprehensive perspective, which articulates technology, management, public policies and citizenship.
The digital transformation of health in Latin America requires a robust technological infrastructure. Health systems need to have interoperable platforms (electronic medical records, shift systems, patient records) that streamline and unify processes. The implementation of Agile and secure information management in multiple formats: clinical data, diagnostic images, digital prescriptions, teleconsultations. It is also essential to establish common data exchange protocols between public and private institutions, which allow continuity of care and an efficient use of information.
On the other hand, digitisation is not only technological: it requires a professional transformation. Health teams must be trained in new technological tools, integrated into multidisciplinary teams (doctors, engineers, data analysts, health computer scientists). And finally, have clearly defined roles to avoid overload, including profiles such as clinical data specialists or digital system managers.
In parallel, in Latin America, health systems face a context where citizens expect quick and accurate responses from institutions and those who represent them. Particularly, in a context where health crises, such as the pandemic, evolve in real time. Therefore, information must be updated and communicated before disinformation takes its place.
In conclusion, the health sector and digital transformation in LATAM is a cross-cutting issue, which has an impact on education, economy, transportation, social policy and communication. However, one of the main obstacles in Latin America is the fragmentation of health systems. To move towards digitisation, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile and Mexico need several steps. First, Convergence of actors: governments, hospitals, insurance companies, private sector, civil organisations and citizens. Second, common strategies: data standards, interoperability, modern regulatory frameworks. Finally, a continuum of information, where data flows safely between institutions and platforms, strengthening the continuity of attention.