Strategic directions for digital inclusion: Mapping exclusion prevention practices in EU countries

Abstract Digital inclusion is a critical issue as health and social care systems become increasingly digitalized. Ensuring equitable access to digital services is essential to prevent widening inequalities, particularly among vulnerable populations. The importance of digital inclusion is emphasized in both national and international strategies, including the EU's Digital Decade goals and the ethical principles of digital health embedded in the implementation of the European Health Data Space (EHDS). As digital health technologies evolve, there is a growing need to develop inclusive approaches that ensure all citizens can access and benefit from digital health and care services. In this workshop we will presents findings from a Finnish project that is part of the national service reform under the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health's digitalization program. The project aims to map the approaches and practices used across EU member states to support digital inclusion and digital support in health and social care. Our methods include document analysis and expert interviews. The work includes summarising international best practices to inform a broader EU-level approach to digital inclusion. As an introduction to the workshop, we will provide an overview of the project's key findings. Mapping study will be conducted during summer - autumn 2025, allowing us to offer the very latest knowledge at the workshop. This will be followed by three country-specific presentations from Finland, the Netherlands, and Poland, offering practical insights into how digital inclusion, and the risks of digital exclusion, are being addressed in different health and care systems. The workshop aims to share strategies and foster dialogue on building more inclusive digital futures in health and social care.