Digital technology has become an essential part of health systems globally. Yet much of its potential remains unrealized, especially for those who need it most.
Based on data from 76 countries and over a decade of World Bank projects, this report proposes a shift from “digital health” to “digital-in-health” making digital tools a foundational element across financing, service delivery, and data governance. It introduces the “Prioritize-Connect-Scale” framework to guide national strategy.
Digital transformation of health systems must move beyond fragmented tech adoption toward a “digital-in-health” approach that integrates digital tools system-wide to improve access, equity, and outcomes.
Key Themes:
From digital health to digital-in-health: Fully embedding digital into every health system component
Data equity & digital divide: Ensuring inclusion of underserved populations
Governance & investment: Frameworks for national planning, financing, and scale
Lessons learned from World Bank support in over 40 countries
AI, analytics, and health system resilience
Ten cross-cutting recommendations for policymakers
Global maturity index for digital health systems
