On October 1, 2026, Minister of Communication Technologies, Sufian Al-Hamisi, emphasized his ministry's dedication to contributing effectively to the reform of the healthcare system and supporting digital transformation in this field. This commitment aligns with Tunisia's national vision for 2030 and the country's digital agenda. The minister made these remarks during his participation in the International Conference on Digital Health, "Telehealth Connect 2026," held in Tunis.
Al-Hamisi highlighted that the digital transformation in the healthcare sector is a crucial lever for developing the healthcare system and improving service quality. He stressed the need to harness technological innovation to achieve health equity, reduce regional disparities, and enhance services while preserving citizens' dignity. The minister also emphasized that digital transformation in healthcare should not be limited to technical aspects but should also focus on improving medical diagnosis, supporting treatment follow-up, and enhancing prevention.
The minister further explained that the success of digital transformation is not measured by the number of platforms and applications created but by its actual impact on reducing citizens' burdens, waiting times, and improving patient care pathways. He also noted that his ministry, in coordination with the Ministry of Health, is working on several initiatives, including establishing a national, interconnected health data system. This system aims to develop a digital health file for citizens and facilitate data exchange between healthcare institutions and stakeholders.
Al-Hamisi underscored the importance of setting common data standards, developing digital infrastructure, and ensuring the security and confidentiality of health data. He also highlighted the need to accelerate digital transformation in the healthcare sector by promoting the "Digital Hospital" project. This project aims to connect healthcare institutions, develop telemedicine services, and improve access to medical specialties.
The minister emphasized that the success of this project requires the integration of various components of the healthcare system, including equipment, infrastructure, human resources, and continuous training. He also stressed the importance of using modern technologies and health data to improve health indicators and support the national surveillance system. Additionally, Al-Hamisi highlighted the need to ensure digital inclusion and reduce regional disparities to guarantee health equity.
The minister called for enhanced coordination between relevant ministries, structures, and institutions to implement programs and monitor achievements. He also emphasized the importance of international cooperation and adopting international standards and experiences in digital health. Al-Hamisi invited public and private institutions, technology companies, research centers, and investors to engage in this process and contribute to developing qualified and sustainable solutions for the healthcare system.
Al-Hamisi concluded by affirming that Tunisia has the necessary medical, technological, and research capacities, as well as a strategic location and clear political will, to play a leading role in digital health. He emphasized that the future of healthcare is not solely dependent on technology but also on a clear vision, inter-institutional cooperation, and investment in human resources and competencies, with citizens at the center of the digital health transformation process.
Key points
- The Tunisian government is committed to supporting digital transformation in the healthcare sector to improve service quality and achieve health equity.
