Digital Health Asia 2026, held on 30–31 March 2026 at the City University of Macau campus in Taipa, brought together global leaders in healthcare, academia, and technology to explore the evolving landscape of digital health. Jointly organised by Times Higher Education (THE) and the City University of Macau, the conference centred on the theme “Shaping tomorrow’s health: From algorithms to authentic care.”
The Asia-Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health (APACPH) was honoured to participate as a partner. The consortium was represented by its Secretary-General, Professor Dr Victor Hoe, and Immediate Past President, Professor Dr So Yoon Kim of Yonsei University College of Medicine, Republic of Korea.
Key Themes and Sessions
The two-day programme featured a rich blend of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and research showcases. A highlight was the keynote lecture by Nobel Laureate Professor Thomas C. Südhof, who reflected on the interplay between basic and applied research in advancing human health.
Key sessions explored:
- The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare systems, including applications in diagnostics, microbiome research, and protein design
- Ethical and governance considerations, particularly in ensuring data protection, patient trust, and shared standards
- The role of universities and cross-sector collaboration in building sustainable digital health ecosystems
- Preventive care approaches that extend beyond clinical settings, emphasising holistic wellbeing
Panel discussions such as “Beyond the clinic: Preventative care through holistic wellbeing” and “Shared standards, shared responsibility: AI that protects data, people and patient trust” underscored the importance of interdisciplinary and ethical approaches to innovation.
Participation and Collaboration
The conference convened a diverse audience, including academic researchers, policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and industry leaders from across Asia and beyond. APACPH’s participation reinforced its commitment to fostering regional collaboration in public health education, research, and policy.
Participation and Engagement
The conference brought together a diverse audience of researchers, policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and industry leaders from across Asia and beyond. APACPH’s participation reinforced its commitment to strengthening regional collaboration in public health education, research, and policy. Engagements throughout the conference provided valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange and partnership building, particularly in areas aligning with APACPH’s mission-capacity strengthening, evidence-based practice, and digital transformation in public health.
In addition to the academic programme, participants were graciously hosted by Professor Jun Liu, Rector of the City University of Macau, at a Welcome Dinner held at Vic’s Restaurante, Macau Fisherman’s Wharf, Rocks Hotel. The hospitality extended further with a Cultural Highlights Tour of Macau, offering delegates an opportunity to engage informally and appreciate the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Reflections for Public Health Practice
Digital Health Asia 2026 highlighted a critical transition: from technology-driven innovation to patient-centred, ethically grounded healthcare solutions. For public and occupational health professionals, this shift emphasises the need to integrate digital tools responsibly while maintaining a strong focus on equity, accessibility, and trust.
As digital health continues to evolve, academic institutions and public health organisations must play a pivotal role in guiding its implementation, ensuring that technological advancements translate into meaningful health outcomes for populations across diverse contexts.
Acknowledgement
APACPH extends its appreciation to Times Higher Education and the City University of Macau for organising a forward-looking and impactful conference and for the opportunity to contribute as a partner.
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