Page 237 - International Perspectives on Effective Teaching and Learning in Digital Education

Culturally Sensitive and Congruent Digital Learning Initiative

ators in industry, health systems operations, and academia (Richardson et al.,
). Later the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted
both the continued impact of long-standing systemic oppression on dispa-
rate health outcomes as well as the growing importance of digital healthcare.

The Guiding Principles of Health Professions’ Digital Learning Initiatives
across Europe.
In the implementation of the most recent WHO framework, the guiding prin-
ciples that should lead all digital learning initiatives for health professions
towards the appropriate and sustainable adoption of digital health solutions
according to the last Action Plan, within the context of national health sec-
tors and health and digital transformation strategies in Europe, and charac-
terised for being culturally sensitive and congruent (World Health Orgaaniza-
tion, ) are:

1. Place the individual at the centre of trustworthy care delivered digitally.
The successful uptake and use of digital technologies in health and he-
alth professions’ education is contingent on a patient-centred appro-
ach. Individuals, health workers and patients should be empowered
through digital health to make informed choices that benefit the he-
alth and wellbeing of themselves, their families and their communities.
. Understand health system challenges, including health needs and tren-
ds, and acknowledge the needs and expectations of citizens and health
workers. Digital technologies, when used appropriately, can make a
substantial contribution to advancing universal health coverage, ai-
ding the work of health professionals, protecting the public in times
of emergencies – like for instance the Covid-19 pandemic – and enhan-
cing health and wellbeing.
3. Recognize the need for policy decision-making based on data, evidence
and lessons learned while allowing for continuous learning, adaptation
and innovation. There are still gaps in the evidence base on digital he-
alth, and there is a role for WHO and Europe to work with other agenci-
es, Member States, international organizations, academic institutions,
civil society and the digital technology industry to learn from previo-
us experiences and strengthen this evidence base. A comprehensive
evidence base will help ensure that digital technologies contribute
effectively to health outcomes, while minimizing potential risks, and
that decisions and investments relating to digital health are sustaina-
ble, evidence informed and driven by needs and by lessons learned.

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