The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Regional Office for Europe has begun preparations for the second five-year European Programme of Work (EPW2) for 2025-2030.
As part of this process, WHO’s Regional Office for Europe is organizing large-scale virtual public hearings with member states, civil society, and other stakeholders to discuss perspectives, priorities, and recommendations for a unified health agenda in the European Region by 2030.
Today, an online video conference was held on the topic "Future Healthcare Systems: The Use of Technology and Innovation in Healthcare – Accessible and Beneficial for All." Azerbaijan was represented at the international conference by the country’s Minister of Health, Teymur Musayev.

During the opening speech of the video conference, Hans Henri Kluge, WHO’s Regional Director for Europe, emphasized that new technologies, including digital tools, are transforming the healthcare sector. According to him, artificial intelligence (AI), precision medicine, and better utilization of personal and demographic data contribute to disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
This, in turn, leads to improved public health and well-being. However, he also noted that technological advancements cannot replace compassionate human interactions in healthcare.

Azerbaijan’s Minister of Health, in his speech, noted that global healthcare has experienced rapid technological advancement over the past decade, particularly in the last two to three years:
"The future of healthcare systems is highly likely to be more predictive, personalized, and interactive. The healthcare industry will be shaped by the integration of technological progress, data-driven decision-making, and steps toward personalized medicine. Even today, artificial intelligence (AI), data systems, and digital solutions play a crucial role in improving healthcare services."

According to the minister, AI can enhance healthcare efficiency in multiple ways:
"Automating repetitive tasks such as planning and documentation allows healthcare professionals to focus more on patient care. At the same time, digital tools improve support for clinical decision-making. AI-powered diagnostics help detect diseases earlier and with greater accuracy, accelerating the decision-making process. The analysis of large data sets aids in identifying public health trends and enables the development of targeted healthcare strategies. However, as we integrate AI into healthcare, we must ensure that AI-based solutions are used fairly and without bias through appropriate regulations and ethical principles."

"Another key aspect of the future of healthcare systems is sustainability. To minimize environmental impact, reduce energy consumption, and promote sustainability, we must increase the number of green hospitals, invest in energy-efficient healthcare facilities, and implement sustainable healthcare waste management systems.

While digital tools offer significant benefits, they should not replace human interaction. These technologies should serve as supportive tools that allow healthcare professionals to dedicate more time to direct patient care. By leveraging AI and digital solutions, healthcare systems can address workforce shortages, enhance the quality of medical services, and create a more sustainable and efficient future," the minister concluded.

During the meeting, representatives from WHO’s Regional Office for Europe, member states, partners, and civil society discussed key topics, including the potential of rapid technological advancements to improve healthcare systems, necessary policy changes to ensure better utilization of technological innovations, and the role of citizens and communities in combating “digital exclusion.”