Digital health tools seen tackling Asia-Pacific’s rising costs, worker shortfall

WEF expects the greatest opportunities in digital prevention and screening.

Digital health and advanced technologies will address the Asia Pacific’s healthcare problems, which are compounded by rising costs and a global shortfall of 11 million healthcare workers by 2030.

World Economic Forum said healthcare inflation across the region may have exceeded 12% in 2025.

Despite increased spending, outcomes vary significantly within economies, often linked to where people live rather than the care they require.

The report noted that the greatest opportunity lies in digital prevention, screening and self‑management tools that enable earlier intervention and better disease control.

Across the region, artificial intelligence-powered screening platforms are already delivering results.

Moreover, remote patient monitoring, digital therapeutics and consumer health technologies are reducing avoidable admissions and emergency visits.

Health literacy programmes delivered through mobile platforms and social media are also raising awareness and enabling healthier behaviours at scale.

“In Japan and Taiwan, remote-controlled ultrasound systems now allow specialists to diagnose patients hundreds of kilometres away, reducing travel and wait times,” the report said.

Another example is Singapore’s shared national imaging platforms, which process tens of thousands of cases a month, prioritising urgent cases in seconds rather than days.

“Smart hospitals use IoT, robotics and digital twins to optimise bed management, patient flow and asset utilisation, reducing length of stay and operational costs,” the report added.

Additionally, national supply chain platforms are applying predictive analytics to inventory and logistics, which ensures essential medicines and equipment reach the right facilities whilst minimising duplication.

Another way the region is improving workflow is by rapidly building population-scale genomics programmes that enable earlier detection, more accurate diagnoses and better treatment selection for diverse populations.

However, the report said adoption is challenging the region’s success. “Policy-makers and healthcare leaders can accelerate progress by aligning incentives, regulation and investment.”