A small-state approach to enabling the digital transformation of public health through education

Abstract Small states face unique challenges and opportunities in implementing digital health, including resource constraints, limited healthcare infrastructure, and the potential for agile, integrated solutions. These states often have to navigate financial limitations, workforce shortages, and technological gaps, which can hinder the adoption of digital health innovations as aimed for by recent European Union (EU) regulations. However, their smaller size can also facilitate quicker decision-making processes and more cohesive policy implementation. In response to the need to enable the digital transformation of healthcare and public health among the future workforce, the University of Malta has taken a proactive approach. The university has reworked its former study unit ‘Digital Health for Healthcare Professionals’ to ‘Digital Health for All: Implementing the Digital Transformation of Health’ (HSC2000). This change reflected a broader scope and a focus on system-wide change, aiming to equip all healthcare professionals. This session will delve into practical insights gained from educating future healthcare professionals on various aspects of digital health technologies, including data management, design thinking, artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and privacy and ethical considerations. It will highlight the curriculum's emphasis on a continuous feedback cycle, hands-on learning, pitch presentations, and real-world applications, ensuring that students are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of digital health implementation. The presentation will also address the importance of tailoring digital health initiatives in response to EU regulations to the specific needs of small states. By focusing on the unique context of small states, the session will provide valuable insights into how these regions can harness the power of digital health to enhance public health outcomes and achieve greater healthcare equity, specifically through the health workforce.