“Exploring the Future of Digital Health: Key Insights from the World Economic Forum” | PYMNTS.com

At the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos, Switzerland, the focus on digital healthcare highlighted how new technologies can enhance accessibility and patient care.

Leaders in healthcare, like Mayo Clinic President and CEO Dr. Gianrico Farrugia, emphasized a “digitally first” approach. This strategy aims to tackle old challenges and improve health outcomes. The World Economic Forum’s Edison Alliance initiated efforts that extended healthcare access to 1 billion people through digital platforms since its launch in 2021. However, the healthcare industry still grapples with finding the right balance between providing value and ensuring privacy and security.

Farrugia shared, “A healthcare system that is frustrating can shift to one that’s more accessible and efficient through a digital-first strategy.” He suggested that healthcare needs to evolve from a linear pipeline to a more integrated platform model. This transition involves creating clear pathways linked to financing options, helping countries understand their next steps in improving patient care.

The PYMNTS Intelligence report, “The Digital Healthcare Gap: Streamlining the Patient Journey,” indicated that two-thirds of consumers engage with patient portals, showing a strong interest, especially among millennials and higher-income groups. Interestingly, 32% of non-users would consider using these platforms if they were available.

Older generations are also not left behind. Another PYMNTS Intelligence report found that 78% of baby boomers and seniors expressed satisfaction with receiving test results online, and 64% participated in at least one digital health activity last year.

Electric vehicles (EVs) were another hot topic at the forum during the session “Getting EV Supply Chains Right.” Though EV sales have slowed in the U.S. and Europe, more than 30 million new EVs are expected on the roads by 2027. Manufacturers are working to secure sustainable supply chains as global geopolitical tensions rise.

Pan Jian, co-chairman of Contemporary Amperex Technology, the largest EV battery producer, stated, “It’s going to be a global effort” to establish effective EV production and supply chains.

Digital transformation plays a crucial role across various sectors, including manufacturing. A report from the WEF noted that embracing digital tools is vital for resilience and long-term growth in a challenging environment.

Digital transformation not only aids businesses in adapting but also promotes sustainability and innovation. Companies can reduce their environmental footprint by leveraging smart technologies.

Furthermore, cybersecurity emerged as a significant theme, especially as global supply chains become increasingly interconnected. Experts like Keri Pearlson from MIT, stressed the importance of being prepared for cyber incidents. “If your organization hasn’t faced a cyber incident yet, it’s likely it will,” Pearlson pointed out. Being proactive about security is essential.