Cambodia & EuroCham Forum: Digital Revolution Necessary for Healthcare Accessible to All
- Editorial team
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
His Excellency Dr. Lo Veasnakiry, Secretary of State in charge of health policy, financing, and digital health at the Ministry of Health of Cambodia, solemnly opened the recent Healthcare and Innovation Exhibition 2025 Forum organized by EuroCham in Phnom Penh.
His speech was an invitation to fully embrace digital transformation to build a modern, inclusive, and sustainable healthcare system that serves the entire Cambodian population.
Dr. Lo Veasnakiry first emphasized that this forum was not just a meeting, but a strategic crossroads bringing together politicians, innovators, professionals, and public and private partners engaged in the digital revolution of healthcare. Cambodia is now entering an era where technological innovations, notably artificial intelligence, must be accompanied by solid, responsible, and ethical governance.
He recalled the advanced phase of national digital health strategies, highlighting a clear vision focused on building an interoperable, sustainable, and inclusive care ecosystem.
"These efforts are in perfect harmony with the orientations of the Royal Government of Cambodia and integrate policies related to the digital economy, data protection, and education guided by ethical principles," he stressed.
The Secretary of State specified that the strategy is now structured around four essential pillars: governance, regulation and ethics, digital resources and infrastructure, as well as financing and investment. This architecture aims to ensure broader access to quality care, promote equity, and strengthen the resilience of the health system in the face of future challenges.
Among concrete examples of progress, Dr. Lo Veasnakiry mentioned the growing integration of advanced technologies such as computed tomography (CT scan) and MRI in public and private hospital facilities throughout the country. He also emphasized the crucial role of international agencies and the private sector in deploying digital tools, notably for immunization data management and improving hospital performance.
The transition to a fully interoperable system represents a major challenge. For this, Cambodia is implementing a system architecture framework that includes international standards to ensure security, compliance, and continuity of care. Adherence to standards such as FHIO (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) and the implementation of a unique patient identity are at the heart of this approach.
Finally, His Excellency recalled the importance of sustainable financing, mentioning a gradual transition towards increased domestic financing for digital health systems, supported by innovative local investment models. The public-private partnership, notably with hospitals, clinics, and startups, is asserted as an essential driver to nurture innovation and ongoing training in this sector.
At the dawn of this major digital transformation, Dr. Lo Veasnakiry’s speech outlined a clear roadmap to make Cambodia an exemplary actor in digital health in Southeast Asia. In conclusion, he called on all forum participants to strengthen cooperation and capitalize on this historic moment to generate ideas, partnerships, and innovative solutions for the benefit of the entire nation.