The seventh World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) began on Wednesday in Doha, bringing together healthcare experts from around the world to discuss ways to make healthcare more accessible, equitable, and resilient. Held over two days, this year’s summit, organized by Qatar Foundation (QF), focuses on the theme of “Humanizing Health: Conflict, Equity, and Resilience.” The event aims to inspire innovative solutions that address the challenges of healthcare in times of conflict and inequality.
Notable figures like Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, Qatar’s former Minister of Public Health, and Lord Darzi of Denham, Executive Chair of WISH, addressed the importance of compassionate, inclusive healthcare. Dr. Al Kuwari highlighted Qatar Foundation’s commitment to accessible healthcare under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. She emphasized that WISH aims to confront urgent global health challenges by presenting forward-thinking ideas and scientific advancements.
In his speech, Lord Darzi condemned the attacks on healthcare workers and facilities in war zones, calling these actions “purely and simply wrong.” He stressed that healthcare spaces should be respected, especially in conflict zones where healthcare workers face extreme conditions.
Dr. Christos Christou, President of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also participated in discussions, sharing his organization's commitment to providing impartial medical aid. He underscored MSF’s role as a “voice for the voiceless,” emphasizing that neutrality should not mean silence when it comes to injustices affecting healthcare.
A significant moment at the summit was the screening of a film depicting the tragic experiences of Palestinians, including the story of Dareen Al Bayaa, an 11-year-old girl who lost most of her family to an Israeli airstrike. Dareen and her surviving brother have been brought to Doha for medical care, highlighting the critical need for healthcare support in conflict zones.
This year’s WISH event marks a new collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), symbolizing a strengthened effort to address pressing health issues globally. WISH and WHO have developed evidence-based reports and policy papers that guide efforts to make healthcare more human-centered, particularly for vulnerable populations. The summit’s discussions are structured around four key areas: the impact of conflict on health, support for refugees and marginalized groups, innovations in healthcare, and community empowerment.
The event’s first day included brainstorming sessions and panel discussions on topics like antimicrobial resistance, protection of healthcare in war zones, and ethical considerations in AI for healthcare. Dr. Mohammed Ghaly and Dr. Barry Solaiman led discussions on the ethical role of AI in healthcare, with a focus on the Gulf region.
Since its inception in 2013, the WISH Innovation program has supported 160 innovators from 41 countries, fostering healthcare advancements worldwide. The Qatar Foundation, established in 1995, continues to drive Qatar’s growth as a knowledge-based economy by investing in education, research, and community programs. Through initiatives like WISH, Qatar Foundation aims to build a sustainable future by promoting lifelong learning and empowering communities to overcome healthcare challenges.
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