Health data digitization in Serbia and the risk of misuse

The use of digital technologies in healthcare delivery has become increasingly prominent in recent years. Information and communication technologies contribute to greater efficiency in the health system and improved access to healthcare, as well as offering financial benefits. Digital health encompasses a wide range of services, such as electronic health and mobile health, but also includes emerging research areas like the application of artificial intelligence, big data, and genomics. As the population ages and the burden of non-communicable diseases increases, pressure on health systems will intensify, underscoring the need to implement both existing and new technological solutions. However, digitization also raises numerous issues, including data protection and privacy concerns, changes in traditional communication and interactions between doctors and patients, and new forms of consent enabled by digital technologies. This paper presents the current state of digital health development and examines development trends and the potential for data misuse in the Republic of Serbia.