Pre-conference: Navigating the digital tide: preparing public health for the AI revolution

Tuesday 12 November, 9:00 – 17:00 Lisbon time (including network lunch)

Organised by

EUPHA Digital health section

Background

The pre-conference 'Navigating the digital tide: preparing public health for the AI revolution' is designed to provide public health professionals with a substantive understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the context of public health. This session aligns with the overarching theme of the main conference, exploring innovation in European public health, by focusing on practical applications and ethical considerations of AI technologies.

This session will introduce fundamental concepts of AI and data science, aiming to build a common understanding among attendees, regardless of their prior technical knowledge. This foundational knowledge is essential for critically assessing how AI tools can be integrated and utilized effectively within public health frameworks.

A significant portion of the pre-conference will address the responsible use of AI in public health. It will explore existing ethical frameworks and develop discussions on how AI can be deployed in a manner that respects privacy, equity, and transparency. This segment is crucial for developing guidelines that public health institutions can adopt to ensure that AI technologies enhance public health objectives without compromising ethical standards. The impact of AI on the public health workforce will also be examined. This includes discussing changes in job roles and the skills needed to navigate an increasingly digital healthcare environment. Preparing the workforce for these changes is vital for the successful implementation of AI in health systems.

Furthermore, the session will engage with the broader implications of AI, including legal and social challenges, to ensure that as public health professionals, we are aware of and prepared to manage the complexities associated with these technologies.

The pre-conference will conclude with an interactive workshop where participants will apply what they have learned in a practical setting. This hands-on experience is designed to demystify the process of developing AI solutions and encourage innovative thinking within the constraints of real-world public health challenges.

By focusing on these areas, the pre-conference aims to equip public health professionals with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead AI initiatives within their organizations and ensure that public health practice not only adapts to technological advances but also guides their ethical implementation.

Programme

Registration

The registration fee is EUR 150. Networking lunch and refreshments are included.