Digital health platform being developed

The Commonwealth of Nations has embarked on an ambitious online health initiative called "Common Health" and initially aims to create a burden of disease map specific to its member states, its secretary-general said here Wednesday.

"We have embarked on a major online initiative called Common Health. We aim to provide a secure, well managed digital platform for doctors, nurses, practitioners and policy makers."

"This will allow member states to see comparative data and identify where they may be opportunities for working (in other countries or communities) or where significant achievement has been registered," the Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma said during the inauguration of the 14th World Congress on Public Health here.

"Initial focus will be to create a burden of disease map specific to the Commonwealth," he said.

Describing it as an ambitious project, Sharma said the online venture will link people associated with health in the 53 member states, including India, and facilitate access to reliable data and foster collaborations.

"Through inter-connectivity they will be able to learn from each other, gain and transfer knowledge, and develop strategies to manage demands," Sharma said, adding the inter-governmental organisation is currently in the processs of developing a core team.

He said a database of health-related material would be made available publicly after being peer reviewed by Commonwealth experts.

"We want it to become a go-to site for those who interested in health and seeking further information on specific subject areas," he said.