This publication presents a comprehensive overview of the current state and future direction of digital health in the Nordic countries, with a special focus on infrastructure development, preventive digital health solutions, and inclusion in digital transformation. It supports the objectives of the Finnish and Ålandic co-presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers 2025, aligned with the Nordic Vision 2030 emphasizing resilience, welfare, and competitiveness.
The first theme explores the foundational elements required to support digital health. It begins with semantic interoperability as a critical enabler of the European Health Data Space (EHDS), highlighting how shared standards and frameworks can enhance data exchange across borders and sectors. Nordic perspectives illustrate how integrated digital ecosystems can break down barriers between health care service delivery and wider health innovation environments.
The publication then addresses the secondary use of health data, presenting national approaches particularly from Sweden to leverage health data for research, innovation, and policy planning while ensuring trust and data protection. Cybersecurity emerges as another key component, with EU-level frameworks and the Finnish strategy providing guidance to secure health data, strengthen system resilience, and ensure continuity of care.
The second theme focuses on the shift from reactive to preventive health systems enabled by digital tools. Artificial intelligence in Finnish health care is examined not only as a technological advancement but also as a driver of new skills and competencies among professionals. Evidence from Nordic and international studies illustrate the effectiveness of digital interventions in improving health outcomes, supporting self-management, and reducing system pressures. Telehealth and remote consultations are presented as central to integrated care models, improving accessibility, and supporting continuity of care regardless of geographical distance.
Ensuring equitable access to digital health services is a key Nordic priority. This theme outlines the principles of digital inclusion and patients’ rights, noting the risks of unequal access due to digital literacy gaps, socioeconomic factors, or regional disparities. Nordic country case studies from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden provide diverse approaches to safeguarding inclusivity during the digital transition. The role of health personnel is also emphasized, particularly the importance of developing digital and AI-related competencies to ensure safe, ethical, and person-centered care.