The fourth World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) was held at Qatar National Convention Centre on 13 November and attended by a host of royalty and state dignitaries, as well as the participation of over 2,000 attendees from 100 countries. Opening the two-day conference, Qatar’s Minister of Public Health Dr. Hanan Al Kuwari, said, “Harnessing new technology and maintaining highly skilled and motivated healthcare workers is key to benefiting global healthcare. We are stronger together when we are driven by our passion to create a healthier world.”
In his welcome address, Executive Chair of WISH, Professor Lord Darzi of Denham, said: “This unique gathering is an opportunity to confront the biggest challenges facing our health systems globally. Our community shares a goal of building a healthier society, and I am confident that the connections forged here at WISH 2018 will result in innovative solutions that will influence healthcare policies around the world for many years to come.”
In a video message to the delegates, former US President Jimmy Carter said: “With political will, action, and commitment, we can help make a difference in people’s lives. We simply cannot stand idly by while others suffer. A healthier world is within our grasp, but we can succeed only if we are determined in our efforts.” The key message to delegates on the first day of WISH 2018 was that collaboration across borders and disciplines, and a willingness to share innovative solutions to address the most serious global medical issues, provides the best opportunity for positive change.
Panel discussions gave delegates the opportunity to engage with experts in their fields to explore healthcare topics in depth. Some of the topics discussed included Eye Health, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and Mental Trauma among Combat Refugees. An Innovation Hub was organized as an interactive space of more than 50 innovators and WISH partner exhibitors.
On the second day of the summit, keynote addresses were delivered by record-breaking swimmer Michael Phelps, who shared a personal perspective on handling mental health challenges, and Mary Robinson, Chair of The Elders and former President of Ireland, who focused on the effects of climate change on health.
