Barbados has taken another step toward modernizing its healthcare system by hosting a Public Health Datathon aimed at strengthening the country’s digital health infrastructure and improving the use of health data. Organized by the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ Surveillance Unit with support from the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), the initiative focused on enhancing data integration, interoperability, and information sharing.
The one-day event brought together health professionals and technical experts to map existing health databases, analyze information flows, and identify gaps in the current health information system. Participants from various public health surveillance programs collaborated to design a more connected and efficient data management framework.
The Datathon is part of Barbados’ broader digital health transformation strategy, helping establish stronger health data governance while improving decision-making through better access to reliable and integrated health information. The exercise also identified opportunities to enhance collaboration across health programs and adopt new technology solutions.
A key outcome of the event was the agreement to begin migrating selected surveillance databases from Excel-based systems to the DHIS2 digital platform. The transition will initially focus on syndromic surveillance and notifiable diseases, creating the foundation for a more integrated, efficient, and sustainable national health information system.
The initiative reflects Barbados’ commitment to leveraging digital technologies to strengthen public health surveillance, improve data quality, and support more effective healthcare planning and response in the years ahead.
