The Intersection of Digital Health, Global Surgery, and Youth Engagement
The rapid digital transformation of healthcare is reshaping health systems worldwide, yet global surgery remains an underrepresented component of universal health coverage. Recognizing the critical role of youth in both areas, a collaborative effort between the WHO Youth Council, the Digital Transformations for Health Lab (DTH-Lab), and InciSioN aims to empower the next generation of health professionals and bridge the gap between digital innovation and surgical care.
Understanding Digital Determinants of Health (DDoH)
Digital Determinants of Health (DDoH) encompass the factors related to access, use, and impact of digital technologies on health outcomes. These determinants are increasingly recognized as crucial for achieving equitable and quality healthcare. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), digital technologies are now integral to daily life and offer immense scope for improving population health WHO Digital Health. However, realizing this potential requires a systematic approach to identify and scale innovations based on country needs.
The Role of Youth in Shaping the Future of Health
Young professionals are vital to driving innovation and advocating for change in both digital health and global surgery. Meaningful youth engagement in decision-making processes at all levels – including the WHO and civil society – is essential Youth Engagement in Global Surgery. The collaboration between the WHO Youth Council, DTH-Lab, and InciSioN provides a platform for cross-learning and mentorship, empowering young leaders to integrate digital innovations and advocacy strategies into their function.
Webinar: Bridging the Gap
A webinar, held on February 26, 2026, from 14:00–15:30 CET, focused on strengthening youth understanding of DDoH and their intersection with global surgery. The webinar aimed to:
- Increase knowledge of DDoH and their relevance to global surgery.
- Highlight the importance of meaningful youth inclusion in shaping the future of surgical care and digital health.
- Create a space for cross-learning between members of InciSioN, the WHO Youth Council, and DTH-Lab.
The Importance of Global Surgery
Global surgery addresses the unmet needs of surgical care in low- and middle-income countries. It is an essential component of universal health coverage, yet it often lacks adequate resources, and attention. The digital transformation in health is also reshaping the global health workforce Digital Transformation in Health, and integrating digital solutions into surgical care can improve access, quality, and efficiency.
Looking Ahead
The convergence of digital health and global surgery, driven by the energy and expertise of young professionals, holds immense promise for advancing equitable and accessible healthcare worldwide. Continued collaboration and investment in youth-led initiatives will be crucial for realizing this potential and ensuring a healthier future for all.