Leapfrogging in a Turbulent Healthcare World
Image: Richard Barker
Two reasons brought me back to one of my favourite countries recently — collaboration with Rosario University in Bogotá, and speaking at a major healthcare conference in Cartagena. And of course, the chance to immerse myself again in Colombia’s dynamic culture.
Rosario and I are exploring collaboration on three fascinating fronts. First, early prediction of Alzheimer’s Disease — which affects a segment of the Colombian population (notably in Antioquia) earlier than usual due to a specific genetic mutation. Second, how gerontology and healthy longevity science intersect — especially as hospitals increasingly treat frail, multi-morbid elderly patients. And third, the health of indigenous communities in rural areas, where illegal mining and climate change threaten traditional food sources and long-term health.
It’s refreshing to step outside First World healthcare models and see what exchanges of insight, data and skills might create true win-wins. The practical solutions we co-develop could well have global relevance.
The ANDI conference, where I spoke on “Innovating in a Turbulent Healthcare World,” was equally eye-opening. Colombia’s current health reform proposals have sparked heated debate. While no one disputes the need for better rural health, wider access, and more investment in prevention, many in industry are concerned about the scale and pace of the shifts in funding, and changes in the structure of the system.
Rather than diving into policy, I focused on three things:
No health system is perfect
Every model can be tested with clear performance criteria
Innovation can — and must — move forward regardless of politics
Indeed, countries like Colombia can leapfrog more rigid systems through AI-powered telemedicine, teleradiology, drone delivery, and self-care tools — putting precision health in the hands of rural health workers and patients alike.
Even the IT system debates at the conference were as spirited as most countries’ political discussions — and that’s a good sign. Colombia has the energy, ambition, and urgency to show leadership and even become a regional leader in innovating in a turbulent healthcare world.
