WHO Highlights Digital Health and AI as Key Priorities for South-East Asia
Health ministers from the region are set to discuss tuberculosis control, specialised care, universal health coverage and stronger health systems.
New Delhi/Dili, Sept. 3: Health ministers and senior officials from the World Health Organization’s South-East Asia Region will meet in Timor-Leste next week to discuss measures aimed at improving healthcare access, strengthening health systems and accelerating progress against major diseases.
The annual regional meeting, scheduled from September 7 to 10, will bring together health leaders from countries across a region representing nearly 2 billion people.
A major focus will be expanding access to specialised healthcare, particularly as populations age and healthcare requirements become increasingly complex. Officials will also examine ways to address shortages and improve the distribution of specialised medical services.
Tuberculosis will remain another key priority. The region continues to carry a substantial share of the global TB burden, with an estimated 3.68 million new cases and 433,000 deaths recorded in 2024.
Health ministers are expected to consider strategies focused on earlier diagnosis, prevention and stronger integration of TB services into primary healthcare systems.
Digital technologies and artificial intelligence will also feature prominently in discussions. WHO said these tools could help countries advance universal health coverage and strengthen the delivery and management of healthcare services.
The meeting will additionally examine access to quality medical devices and diagnostic technologies, as well as measures to make healthcare facilities more resilient to emergencies and climate related risks.
WHO said the discussions are expected to help shape the region’s health agenda while supporting progress towards universal health coverage and health-related Sustainable Development Goals.
