Panel discussion: 21st century health systems

Many aspects of modern healthcare—from hospital infrastructure to insurance models—are still rooted in 20th-century designs and methodologies. As demographics shift, medical advancements accelerate, and patient expectations evolve, healthcare systems must adapt to remain effective and sustainable. Future-ready healthcare requires rethinking hospital planning, financing models, and service delivery to better accommodate aging populations, digital health innovations, and personalized medicine. Exploring the key priorities for transformation will be essential to ensuring that healthcare systems are resilient, efficient, and equipped to meet the demands of the coming decades.

Why now?

The global health spending (expenditures with regards to healthcare services and goods) as a share of GDP is projected to rise steadily from 2024 to 2029, increasing by 0.2 percentage points. By 2029, it is expected to reach a new peak of 6.31%, from 6.07% in 2024.

Impact goals

Identify future challenges and concrete pathways to future-proofing health systems in light of emerging megatrends.

Guiding questions:

• What are the key megatrends that will shape health systems of the next decades?
• Where are the 3 most important areas for action in order to future-proof the healthcare systems in the region and globally?
• For each of these areas of action what types of solutions are needed?

Impulse talk

As concerns about social media’s impact on mental health – especially among children and young adults – continue to rise, many countries are introducing regulations and recognizing digital addiction as a mental health condition. At the same time, research is expanding on effective interventions. How can policies and innovations help mitigate the risks while promoting healthier digital engagement?

Why now?

WHO recognized digital addiction as a worldwide problem in 2020. A global survey indicates widespread problematic use of digital technologies: 53% of people would prefer to live without a friend rather than their mobile; and 39% of Gen Zs are spending more time online than they would like to.

Impact goals

Showcase evidence-based interventions that work to ensure balance in the use of digital technologies.

Guiding questions:

• What is the evidence on the impact of social media use on mental health?
• What do countries do to support users in finding the balance?
• How can parents, educators and other stakeholders create a safer environment for youth and children?

Fireside chat

The increasing reliance on advanced drugs and medical technologies has made healthcare supply chains more complex and vulnerable to disruptions. Material shortages, geopolitical instability, and logistical challenges can threaten patient safety and treatment continuity. To address these risks, healthcare systems must adopt proactive strategies to enhance supply chain resilience, ensuring consistent access to critical medicines and equipment. Strengthening collaboration between healthcare providers, governments, and industry leaders will be essential to creating more adaptive, sustainable, and secure supply networks for the future of global health.

Why now?

In 2023, 93% of healthcare providers experienced widespread product shortages. As of 2024, the Supply Chain Resiliency Report highlights 80% of healthcare providers and 84% of suppliers expect supply chain challenges to worsen or remain the same.

Impact goals

Reduce risks in health supply chains by informing and motivating collaboration among healthcare providers and governments.

Guiding questions:

• Where are the most important risks from a regional perspective?
• What are some of the solutions that have worked in countries around the world?
• What are examples of successful collaboration among healthcare providers and governments to reduce supply chain risks in health? 
• What are key success factors for these collaborations and how can they be replicated?

Fireside chat

With rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) threatening global health, researchers are actively exploring innovative alternatives to traditional antibiotics. Promising approaches include antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), plant-based antimicrobials, phage therapy, bacteriocins, vaccines, and CRISPR-based treatments. These emerging solutions not only offer potential breakthroughs in infection control but also present new commercial opportunities in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. Understanding the viability, scalability, and regulatory pathways of these alternatives will be key to shaping the next generation of antimicrobial treatments and safeguarding global health.

Why now?

The World Bank estimates that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) can potentially incur USD 1 trillion in additional healthcare costs by 2050 along with USD 1 trillion to USD 3.4 trillion GDP losses by 2030.

Impact goals

Increased investment in most promising opportunities to address AMR.

Guiding questions:

• What are the most promising opportunities from a commercial and health benefit perspective?
• How can research be further incentivized to prevent a potential pandemic?
• How can international collaboration support the development of new drugs and solutions?

Panel discussion

As aging populations grow and the prevalence of chronic conditions rises, traditional health funding and insurance models are under increasing strain. At the same time, medical advancements and digital health innovations are transforming how care is delivered. Harnessing data-driven approaches – such as predictive analytics, personalised risk assessments, and value-based care models – could pave the way for more efficient, affordable, and outcome-focused healthcare systems. Exploring these novel models will be key to ensuring sustainable financing, improving patient outcomes, and making quality care more accessible in the years ahead.

Why now?

Population ageing is accelerating in almost all countries around the world: by 2074, the global population aged 65 and older is expected to reach 20.7% from 10.3% in 2024, while the number of people aged 80 and above is projected to more than triple.

Impact goals

Support the implementation of promising, new, data-driven funding models for healthcare in countries with aging populations.

Guiding questions:

• How can data be leveraged to ensure more affordable care and better outcomes?
• What are the most promising tools under development?
• How can regulation and collaboration support the roll out of the most promising tools?

Elevator pitches

Healthcare worker shortages impact nations worldwide—low-income countries face brain drain, while others struggle with gaps in qualified staff. As demand for skilled professionals rises, global collaboration on health education standards could help bridge these shortages, ensuring a well-trained, mobile workforce. Standardised training, cross-border partnerships, and innovative learning models may offer solutions to improve healthcare access and quality on a global scale. This session invites fresh ideas and groundbreaking innovations to reshape health workforce development for the future.

Why now?

By 2030, the world could be short of 10 million health workers, with low- and lower-middle-income countries facing the biggest gaps.

Impact goals

Reduce global worker shortages by identifying most promising and mutually beneficial avenues for international collaboration in healthcare qualifications.

Guiding questions:

• Where are the most important skills gaps in the sector?
• How might the technological revolution and AI reshape the skills needed for healthcare workers?

Impulse talk: Doctor future

Emerging technologies are transforming primary care, enabling general practitioners to conduct full-spectrum screenings – from CT scans to MRIs – enhanced by real-time, AI-driven diagnostics. These advancements promise faster, more precise care, yet the role of personal connection, empathy, and emotional intelligence remains irreplaceable. As technology reshapes the family doctor’s practice, how will the balance between cutting-edge innovation and human-centered care define the future of primary healthcare?

Why now?

AI tools can reduce missed detections by up to 70% while automating mundane tasks, micro CTs and micro-MRIs are key growth markets. At the same time surveys suggest that personal contact and empathy are key for patients.

Impact goals

Articulate a vision for the key trends shaping the medical offices of the future to enable stakeholders to take more informed decisions.

Guiding questions:

• How can AI and advanced diagnostics enhance, rather than replace, the role of general practitioners?
• What skills and training will future primary care doctors need to integrate technology while maintaining strong patient relationships?

Panel discussion

As healthcare evolves, so do the skills required of medical professionals. A deeper understanding of mental health, advancements in personalized medicine, and the growing role of AI in patient care are reshaping medical education. Future healthcare providers must be equipped with not only clinical expertise but also digital literacy, interdisciplinary collaboration skills, and the ability to integrate emerging technologies into patient care. Rethinking medical training today—by emphasising mental health, AI-driven diagnostics, and data-informed decision-making—will be essential to preparing the next generation of health professionals for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Why now?

The global market for artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare is valued at USD 26.69 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to approximately USD 613.81 billion by 2034, with a strong CAGR of 36.83% from 2024 to 2034. This reflects AI’s accelerating role in diagnostics, treatment, and healthcare innovation.

Impact goals

Identify changes to be made in training and related curricula for healthcare and medical professionals to equip them with skills for the medical age.

Guiding questions:

• What are the most important skills needed to take full advantage of AI tools?
• How should training institutions adapt to equip professionals with the right skills to work with AI?
• How should current professionals upskill?

Fireside chat

Nearly half of the world’s population faces barriers to healthcare due to poverty, geographic isolation, or both. Advances in technology—from AI-powered diagnostics to telemedicine and digital health education—have the potential to bridge this gap by supporting healthcare professionals in delivering timely, effective, and affordable care. By leveraging data-driven tools, remote monitoring, and innovative treatment solutions, technology can enhance early diagnosis, improve treatment planning, and expand healthcare access to underserved communities. The future of global health depends on harnessing these innovations to create more inclusive and equitable healthcare systems.

Why now?

Over half of the global population (about 4.5 billion people) still faces barriers to accessing essential healthcare, according to the WHO. For 1.3 billion of them, the cost of medical care isn’t just a financial burden; it’s a catalyst for deeper economic hardship, pushing individuals and families into poverty or even extreme poverty.

Impact goals

Increase investment in the most promising technology solutions that reduce barriers to accessing essential healthcare.

Guiding questions:

• Which are the most critical barriers that people face when accessing essential healthcare?
• Which barriers to access can be addressed through the most promising technological solutions over the next 5 or 10 years?
• What is the market potential for these innovative solutions and how should these be funded?

Panel discussion

Global and national development actors, along with philanthropic organisations, have been instrumental in driving public health progress over the past decades, achieving milestones such as polio vaccination, improved sanitation, and enhanced maternal and child health. As health challenges continue to evolve, new priorities are emerging in areas such as infectious disease control, health equity, and sustainable healthcare systems. This shift demands stronger collaborations and innovative approaches from both new and established leaders in global health, as they work together to create lasting, transformative impact.

Why now?

In 2023, global development assistance for health declined to USD 64.6 billion. If health remains a priority for development partners, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation forecasts that this assistance will further decrease to USD 50.6 billion by 2030. However, if other sectors take priority, it could potentially fall to USD 36.7 billion.

Impact goals

Create a shared understanding among stakeholders on future priorities for impact and how collaboration among stakeholders can be strengthened to address them.

Guiding questions:

• What specific actions can be taken today to tackle the most urgent global health challenges?
• What are the priorities for impact for the next 5-10 years? 
• Where is collaboration and pooling of resources most important in light of the changing development landscape? • Who should take the lead in addressing these priorities?

Impulse talk: Lab space - Future innovations from the space race

With the decreasing cost of space launches and plans for a greater off-planet presence, space has become a new frontier for experimental medical research. The unique conditions of zero gravity offer an unprecedented opportunity to test treatments and even manufacture medical products on a small scale. From new therapies to novel technologies, space could hold the key to revolutionary health innovations. How might space-based research transform the future of medicine and human health?

Why now?

McKinsey estimates that collaboration between pharmaceuticals companies and the space sector could lead to business revenues from USD2.8 billion to USD4.2 billion per year in the short to medium term.

Impact goals

Raise awareness about the longer-term opportunities for innovation through collaboration of health sector actors with space companies.

Guiding questions:

• What are the most promising innovations that could emerge from space programs?
• Who are the main players, areas and what is the timeline for commercialisation?
• How can health sector players collaborate with space companies for innovative solutions in healthcare?

Panel discussion

Wearable devices have already transformed patient care by enabling continuous data collection, but the next wave of home health technology promises even greater potential. With advancements in accurate screening, real-time monitoring, and more efficient care management, these innovations could improve care for a wider range of conditions. As home health tech continues to evolve, it holds the promise of reshaping how individuals manage their health and receive care, paving the way for more personalised and accessible healthcare solutions. What’s next for home health technology, and how will it revolutionise patient care?

Why now?

The global wearable technology market is projected to increase from USD 70.30 billion in 2024 to USD 152.82 billion by 2029, reflecting a CAGR of 16.8% over the forecast period. The wearable technology market for AI-powered segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

Impact goals

Explore future potential to improve healthcare through scaling of wearables and other medical devices.

Guiding questions:

• How can the move from treatment to prevention be enabled through medical devices?
• What regulatory changes are needed to fully enable the use of devices?
• How can devices enable users to take charge of their health?

Fireside chat

Brain implants have demonstrated considerable potential in treating conditions like paralysis and Parkinson's disease, showing promising results in clinical trials. However, the introduction of foreign objects into the brain presents distinct risks, including complications related to infection, rejection, and long-term effects on brain function. As this technology advances, understanding both the therapeutic benefits and the potential dangers will be crucial in shaping its future role in treating neurological disorders.

Why now?

The global brain-computer interface market was projected to reach USD 2.44 billion in 2024, with an expected growth rate of 18.15% CAGR from 2025 to 2030.

Impact goals

Raise awareness among stakeholders about expected breakthroughs in brain-computer interfaces and related challenges to be addressed.

Guiding questions:

• What is next for brain implants and brain-computer interfaces?
• How might they be further miniaturised and what new approaches or materials could offer breakthroughs for safer, long-lasting implants in the brain – and other organs?
• What are the risks and how can they be managed and regulated?

Panel discussion

Open-source access to AlphaFold 3’s advanced modelling capabilities has the potential to revolutionise drug discovery. By accurately predicting protein, RNA, and small molecule interactions, this technology could dramatically shorten the time required for drug development and open up new avenues for research. The ability to model complex biological interactions more efficiently could lead to faster identification of promising drug candidates and more effective treatments, driving progress in the pharmaceutical industry.

Why now?

AI shows great potential to reduce the cost of introducing a new drug into the market (amounting to USD 1.3 billion on average), one of the most exorbitant health costs. The integration of AI in drug discovery is set to revolutionise pharmaceutical research, with the market projected to surge from USD 1.76 billion in 2024 to USD 13.44 billion by 2035, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 20%.

Impact goals

Enable better and more use of AI for drug discovery by creating shared understanding about the opportunities and challenges.

Guiding questions:

• How can open-source access to AlphaFold 3 accelerate the drug discovery process?
• What are the potential challenges and limitations in using AlphaFold 3 for predicting complex biological interactions?
• How can collaborations between researchers, industry, and open-source communities maximise the impact of this technology in drug development? 
• What are the practical implications of faster drug discovery and what is the timeline for major commercial impact?

Panel discussion

AI is increasingly poised to revolutionise personalised healthcare by integrating an individual’s genetic, metabolic, lifestyle, and environmental data. This approach promises to optimise prevention and care, offering tailored strategies that could significantly improve health outcomes and extend longevity. The application of AI in this context has the potential to shift healthcare from a one-size-fits-all model to a more precise, individualised approach, transforming how we prevent, diagnose, and manage health throughout life.

Why now? 

A new AI model (AstraZeneca) can detect early signs of over 1,000 diseases, often before symptoms appear. This breakthrough shifts healthcare from reactive treatment to proactive prevention, enabling earlier interventions and better patient outcomes.

Impact goals

Identify most promising AI solutions for personalised health interventions to be scaled.

Guiding questions:

• What are the most promising applications of AI for personalised prevention under development?
• What are the main challenges to scaling the adoption of AI in this space?
• How can healthcare providers work with AI companies and governments to remove roadblocks to adoption?

Impulse talk

The MOSCOT method (Multi-Omics Single-Cell Optimal Transport), which combines biology and AI modelling, allows researchers to track how millions of cells interact to form new organs and how diseases evolve. By capturing the dynamics of cell development with unprecedented detail, MOSCOT provides the ability to make precise predictions about disease progression. This could pave the way for personalised therapies that address the root causes of disease. How might this innovative approach transform the future of disease treatment and personalised medicine?

Why now?

Thanks to the MOSCOT method, researchers can now observe millions of cells simultaneously as they develop into a new organ providing new insights on, for example, the pancreas or diabetes.

Impact goals

Improve understanding of the new method and its potential applications.

Guiding questions:

• How might this breakthrough accelerate research?
• How can it improve organ and disease management?
• What are the most likely practical outcomes and what is the timeline for application?

Fireside chat

Medical professionals currently rely on analog data such as smell, non-verbal cues, and muscle strength, which are difficult to digitize. However, artificial sensors are advancing rapidly, offering superior capabilities in areas like sight, hearing, and touch, surpassing human precision and speed. With the development of smell sensors underway, future technologies could enable the capture of these previously intangible data points, enhancing AI training and decision-making in healthcare. These innovations hold the potential to revolutionize clinical practice by providing more accurate, data-driven insights for medical decision-making.

Why now?

AI shows tremendous potential in diagnostic, especially when combined with new types of sensors. The combination of E-Nose, E-Eyes, E-Ears, E-Skin, and E-Tongue together can provide a more complete and in-depth sensory understanding of an object or material. It can be used in a variety of applications, such as food quality assessment, safety surveillance, cosmetic product development, and chemical quality testing.

Impact goals

Enable stakeholders to take more informed decisions about these new technologies considering their future applications.

Guiding questions:

• What practical challenges exist in integrating these sensors into current medical practices?
• How can AI-driven decision-making improve the accuracy and efficiency of healthcare delivery with these new sensor technologies?
• What potential advancements in sensor technology could further transform medical diagnostics and treatment in the next decade?

Fireside chat

Agentic AI has the potential to revolutionise personalised healthcare by providing low-cost support for managing care plans, diet, exercise, and risk alerts. By offering tailored recommendations, it could empower patients to take greater control of their health. However, for these systems to be effective, key factors such as accessibility, ease of use, and seamless integration with current healthcare practices must be addressed. Understanding how medical teams and patients can adapt to these AI-driven tools will be crucial for maximising their potential impact on health management and outcomes.

Why now?

By 2028, agentic AI will be integrated into 33% of enterprise software applications, a significant rise from under 1% in 2024. This advancement will enable AI to autonomously handle 15% of daily work decisions, streamlining operations and reducing human intervention in routine tasks.

Impact goals

Enable healthcare providers and governments to take more informed decisions about agentic AI and what is needed for successful implementation.

Guiding questions:

• What are the potential challenges in adapting current medical practices to incorporate AI-driven care plans and alerts?
• What are the key factors that will enable successful integration of agentic AI into existing healthcare systems?
• How can AI tools be made accessible and user-friendly for both patients and medical teams?

Panel discussion

Training AI on large health datasets holds immense potential for driving advancements in personalised care, disease prevention, and medical research. However, the challenge of balancing data access with privacy, security, and trust remains a significant barrier. Developing models that allow for responsible data use while protecting sensitive health information will be crucial in maximising the social and economic benefits of AI in healthcare. Finding this balance is key to ensuring that public goods are prioritised without compromising data security.

Why now?

The global big data in healthcare market is set to grow from USD 50.74 billion in 2024 to USD 145.42 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 11.41%. However, trust remains a challenge, with only 44% of people expressing confidence in AI for healthcare. Concerns are particularly high in countries like the United States, France, and Switzerland (about 40%), while countries like China, India, and Mexico show more trust (around 20%).

Impact goals

Enabling leaders to build systems that ensure trust in data to unlock the full potential of AI in health and healthcare while balancing security and public good.

Guiding questions:

• How can healthcare systems ensure secure and ethical access to large health datasets for AI training?
• What strategies can be implemented to foster trust between patients, providers, and AI developers regarding data use?
• How can data-sharing models be designed to protect privacy while enabling advancements in healthcare innovation?

Elevator pitches

Wearables have advanced in both accuracy and the range of health indicators they can monitor. Looking ahead, the focus is on making them more interactive, collecting broader data, and utilising AI and advanced computing for deeper insights. These innovations could revolutionise personalised healthcare, improving prevention and treatment. The future of wearables holds great potential for transforming healthcare, and innovations in this space will play a crucial role in shaping that future. We invite thought leaders, innovators, and experts to share new ideas and breakthroughs in this exciting field.

Why now?

An estimated number of 560 million wearable devices were shipped in 2024 and the smartwatch industry reached USD 50 billion in 2024. Devices will continue to become smaller, more sophisticated and less expensive.

Impact goals

Enable stakeholders to understand the most impactful innovations in wearables devices or solutions ready for scaling.

Guiding questions:

• How can wearables be integrated into healthcare systems for better patient care?
• What challenges exist in expanding wearable data collection?
• How might wearables evolve in the next decade to predict health issues before they arise?