Digital Transformation & Interoperability

Digital transformation reshapes healthcare systems across the world, enabling more proactive, data-driven and personalised approaches to care. Such technologies as AI, cloud computing and digital therapeutics promise to optimise operations, support clinical decision-making and expand access to care. However, true transformation requires more than innovation — it demands a shift in leadership culture, investment in digital skills and a renewed focus on patient-centred outcomes. 

Interoperability serves as the backbone of this shift. Without seamless data exchange across platforms, regions and care settings, digital advancements remain siloed and underused. From vendor-neutral pharmacy systems to cross-border health technology assessments, integrated frameworks are essential to ensure consistency, safety and value. Interoperability also empowers patients and professionals alike by enabling real-time collaboration, informed choices and coordinated care delivery. 

This issue features perspectives on AI, cloud integration, digital upskilling, phygital care models, patient inclusion and regulatory frameworks. It explores how leadership, innovation and interoperability can converge to build resilient, equitable and sustainable health systems fit for the digital age. 

Everton Santos and Spencer Corbett examine how global healthcare systems are prioritising AI, cloud, and digital technologies to enable more intelligent and patient-focused care. 

Emma Scatterty illustrates how Scotland fosters digital skills in health and care through inclusive leadership, collaborative networks and accessible training. 

Chrystalla Charalambous discusses how digital therapeutics enhance healthcare access, personalise treatments, and reduce costs, while underlining the need for clear regulations, education and trust to support wider adoption. 

Crystal Broj presents how AI-driven “phygital” command centres are redefining healthcare by blending digital innovation with human-centred care to optimise operations, support clinicians and deliver seamless, personalised experiences across the entire patient journey. 

Thierry Godelle outlines how the EAHP’s Special Interest Group is advancing vendor-neutral interoperability in European hospital pharmacies to boost efficiency, safety and patient-centred care. 

Anca del Río stresses the need for health systems to integrate technology, data and talent, while promoting innovation, interoperability, and adaptive policies to create resilient, patient-centred care models. 

Márcio Silva explores how digital transformation and interoperability are reshaping hospital management and patient care. 

Dr. Katarzyna Zarychta reflects on how the digital age challenges mental health while offering innovative tools like apps and teletherapy, and calls for systemic reform and inclusive care. 

Prof. Simona Agger Ganassi highlights the need for healthcare systems not to respond to emergencies after they occur but to improve their level of emergency preparedness to be better prepared for future challenges. 
Dr. Quoc Duy Vo argues that AI can help resolve tensions between professional, managerial and market logics in healthcare by optimising workflows and resource use. 

Robert S. Greene, Nicola Bedlington and Lydia Makaroff advocate for patient organisations to foster diverse, equitable and inclusive leadership to truly reflect and effectively serve all communities. 

Susana Álvarez Gómez explains how Regulation (EU) 2021/2282 unifies EU health technology assessments to improve access, transparency and national decision-making. 

David L. Schreiner reflects that a meaningful leadership legacy is built through values-driven actions, authentic relationships and a consistent commitment to positively impacting others. 

I hope the insights and experiences shared in this issue will inspire reflection, spark new ideas and support your efforts in promoting digital transformation and interoperability in healthcare. As always, we warmly welcome your thoughts, questions or suggestions — your feedback is invaluable in shaping future editions. 

Happy reading!