A new research is set to define the concept of population health, explain why a strategy is needed to address it, and list actions for policymakers to improve it.

 

The World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), a global initiative of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), will present the ‘Healthy Populations’ forum and report during its 2016 conference, which will be held on November 29 and 30 November in Doha, Qatar.

 

By discussing case studies based on community and employer-led initiatives, healthcare systems and city-wide approaches, the paper will lay out a framework for a population health management strategy that will translate into actionable policy recommendations.

 

Sue Siegel, chief executive officer, GE Ventures and Healthymagination, who will chair the forum, said: “‘Healthy Populations’ is a term widely used yet commonly misunderstood. It is a privilege to be engaged with this distinguished group of leaders working to improve the health outcomes of communities worldwide. I am confident that the results of our efforts will contribute to the evidence base needed to better understand the kinds of cross-sector, collaborative actions necessary in communities globally for change to truly take hold.”

 

Among the topics the report will cover will be the significance of technology and innovation in enhancing the health of populations, in both low and high-income countries. 

 

It will shed light on how technology has transformed the way healthcare is delivered in certain countries, while identifying possible interventions that lead to short and long-term impact.

 

Researchers will discuss how a country’s national policy can play an important role in population health.

 

Egbert Schillings, chief executive officer, WISH, said: “This is an exciting body of work because the health of a population is influenced by factors that are outside the traditional healthcare system, such as social inequalities, pollution, education, urban planning, and lifestyle choices. 

 

"As a consequence, most healthcare costs are really due to non-healthcare factors, so the report will showcase successful population health strategies which seek to address all factors influencing health.”

 

Meanwhile, the WISH 2016 Summit will feature seven research forums that highlight and address some of the world’s most pressing healthcare challenges. 

 

In addition to Healthy Populations, the forums will generate interdisciplinary, evidence-based reports on topics including precision medicine, economic benefits of investing in health, cardiovascular disease, accountable care, autism, and behavioural insights. 

 

For the first time, WISH will also report on its ongoing impact locally and globally on issues previously highlighted at the Summit, such as diabetes and patient safety.

 

The Summit will feature innovation showcases from around the world that are shaping the design, delivery, and financing of care, as well as a cohort of young innovators; emerging healthcare leaders under the age of 30, whose contributions to global health deserve wider recognition. - TradeArabia News Service