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Implementing digital health tools and information systems can improve health service delivery, but not if done without considering the broader goals, vision, and data ecosystem of the country’s health system. The DUAL model for digitally transforming health systems to advance data use is based on countries’ actual experiences and emphasizes a holistic approach that considers not only tools, systems, and infrastructure but also strengthening governance, building the capacity of the health workforce, and cultivating a culture of data use throughout the health sector. We envision a future in which all stakeholders in digital health, both globally and nationally, work together to advance and accelerate digital transformation in alignment with current best practices and each country’s health goals and digital maturity.

Country governments can apply the DUAL model to digital transformation for data use efforts to align digital health initiatives and integrate the model’s key factors within national strategies. Key actors include ministries of health and other government agencies responsible for digital health, as well as information and communication technology. They work across departments and ministries to implement digital health programming and execute strategies and policies. The DUAL model aims to support countries whether they are just beginning to define their vision for digital health or have several digital systems already deployed.

Funders can champion the DUAL model and invest in programming that reflects its findings and recommendations. Funding organizations may operate at a global or regional scale, including foundations and multilateral organizations. They fund and support evidence-based interventions that have been shown to achieve system-wide results, demonstratable scale, and a return on investment. The DUAL model helps funders invest in country-driven digital health programming, while promoting integrated, interoperable digital tools and approaches.

Implementers can apply the DUAL model to current and future projects to optimize the impact of digital and data interventions. Implementers work closely with different government ministries and departments, as well as other global partners, to ensure digital and data interventions can be implemented, scaled, and sustained.

Policymakers can champion the DUAL model and develop policies and guidance in accordance with its recommendations. Policymakers develop standards and policies for digital health. They review and synthesize the current evidence base for digital and data interventions to enact new guidance on the use and scale-up of digital health solutions for countries’ health systems. The DUAL model helps policymakers establish governance bodies, guidance, and technology standards in support of countries’ national digital health strategies.