‘Pakistan Digital Health Day’ to change healthcare ecosystem

By embracing new technologies

Novartis Pharmaceutical, in collaboration with Pakistan Digital Health Initiative (PDHI) and National Incubation Center (NIC), organised ‘Pakistan Digital Health Day’ at NIC located in NED University that marked steps being taken to leverage digital initiatives that can change the healthcare ecosystem in Pakistan.

The event featured speakers and panel discussions with individuals belonging to pharmaceutical, healthcare and digital backgrounds. The highlight was the presentations by health-based tech startups that got an opportunity to share their business vision.



“We believe that we need to work with the right-minded people, vendors and especially the new breed of startups that can help us not only to achieve our vision by taking bold steps and partnerships but also make the environment we work in a better place to live in,” stated Dr Imran Rasheed, CEO, Novartis at the event.

In attendance were also government officials and health and academia to discuss the challenges faced by Pakistan in the healthcare sector and how technology can be utilised to overcome those challenges.



“Global healthcare systems are embracing new technologies and undergoing massive transformation, however, Pakistan has yet to catch up. Digital technology enables access to healthcare easier in developing economies such as Pakistan, where a major chunk of the population resides in far-flung areas. Therefore, it is essential that we make the most of digital healthcare technologies to address key medical needs of the populace,” said Dr Zakiuddin Ahmed, CEO - Digital Care; Program Director - Digital Health, King Saud University.