Pacific health leaders have identified artificial intelligence, health data and research as priorities for regional cooperation, as countries look to modernise health systems and improve their resilience.
The priorities were discussed at the 2026 Pacific Heads of Health Meeting, held in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, where senior health officials and regional partners developed recommendations addressing shared health challenges and the future of healthcare delivery across the Pacific.
Discussions focused on the renewed Healthy Islands Vision 2050, including the role of AI, health data and research in supporting health system development.
Other priorities included sustainable health financing, non-communicable diseases, reproductive health, workforce development, climate resilience and health security.
The meeting also looked at how Pacific countries could strengthen regional partnerships while ensuring health system development reflected national priorities and local circumstances.
Cook Islands Ministry of Health Secretary Bob Williams said the meeting had provided an opportunity to consider how the region’s long-term health priorities could respond to technological change.
“Hosting the Pacific Heads of Health Meeting in Rarotonga has brought Pacific health leaders together around the priorities that matter most to our people,” Mr Williams said.
“The meeting has helped us consider how the Healthy Islands journey can respond to a changing health, climate and digital environment.”
Pacific Community Public Health Division director Dr Berlin Kafoa said regional cooperation would help countries strengthen their capabilities and make better use of evidence in health decision-making.
“The meeting helps translate regional discussions into practical action for countries and communities,” Dr Kafoa said.
“SPC remains committed to working alongside countries and partners to strengthen capacity, support evidence-based decision-making and advance the Healthy Islands Vision 2050 through coordinated action.”
World Health Organization representative to the South Pacific Dr Mark Jacobs said regional cooperation remained important as Pacific countries responded to emerging health threats and technological change.
The meeting’s recommendations will inform future regional health governance discussions and cooperation between Pacific governments and their partners.
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