eHealth (also written e-health) is a relatively recent term for healthcare practice supported by electronic processes and communication, dating back to at least 1999. Usage of the term varies. A study in 2005 found 51 unique definitions. Some argue that it is interchangeable with health informatics with a broad definition covering electronic/digital processes in health^[3] while others use it in the narrower sense of healthcare practice using the Internet.^[4][5][6] It can also include health applications and links on mobile phones, referred to as mHealth or m-Health. Since about 2011, the increasing recognition of the need for better cyber-security and regulation may result in the need for these specialized resources to develop safer eHealth solutions that can withstand these growing threats.

The health data ecosystem and big data

The evolving health data ecosystem

Globally, the evolution of the health data ecosystem within and between countries offers new opportunities for health care practice, research and discovery. There are new stakeholders and new capabilities as technologies, analytical methods and policy change and adapt in order to realize the potential of big data in health. This environment opens new possibilities and challenges, and requires innovative responses across the spectrum.

Expanding sources of data

Beyond traditional sources of data generated from health care and public health activities, we now have the ability to capture data for health through sensors, wearables and monitors of all kinds.

Growing capabilities

New analytical methods allow us to link to other, dissimilar data such as environmental, geospatial, life style and behavioral data. New technological capabilities allow generation, storage and exploitation of data across many aspects of human health.

New stakeholders

Changes in the health data ecosystem are also reflected in the emergence of new stakeholders. As traditional stakeholders adapt to the changing environment, they are working in new configurations and mastering new skills.

The health data ecosystem is described in this conceptual diagram, created by the WHO eHealth unit and the Health Ethics and Policy Lab, Epidemiology Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich.

• The Health Ethics and Policy Lab, Epidemiology Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich

eHealth at WHO

eHealth is the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) for health. The eHealth unit works with partners at the global, regional and country level to promote and strengthen the use of information and communication technologies in health development, from applications in the field to global governance. The unit is based in the Department of Knowledge, Ethics and Research in the cluster of Health Systems and Innovation.

Resolutions on eHealth

The 66th World Health Assembly recognized the need for health data standardization as part of eHealth systems and services, and the importance of proper governance and operation of health-related global top-level InternetInternet DOMAIN names, including “.health”.

• Resolution WHA66.24

The World Health Assembly resolution recognized the potential of eHealth to strengthen health systems and to improve quality, safety and access to care, and encouraged Member States to take action to incorporate eHealth in health systems and services (58th World Health Assembly, 2005; Geneva, Switzerland).

• Resolution WHA58.28

World Health Organization in 1998 recognized the increasing importance of the Internet and its potential to impact health through advertising and promotion of medical products, in its resolution on “Cross-border advertising, promotion, and sale of medical products through the Internet” (101st Executive Board, 1998; Geneva, Switzerland).

• Resolution EB101.R3

The Executive board considered “mHealth: use of mobile wireless technologies for public health,” reflecting the increasing importance of this resource for health services delivery and public health due to their ease of use, broad reach and wide acceptance. “mHealth” or mobile health has been shown to increase access to health information, services and skills, as well as promote positive changes in health behaviours and manage diseases. (139th Executive Board, 2016; Geneva, Switzerland).

• Report EB139/8

eHealth collaborations

The ehealth unit is working in close collaboration with WHO collaborating centers, NGO's in official relations, its eHealth Technical Advisory Group (eTAG) and other partners.