A European roadmap to a digital epidemiology in public health system.

This article explores the challenges faced by the German public health service in implementing digitalization, specifically in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the lack of consensus on the goals and definition of digitalization in public health, as well as funding and procurement difficulties. The article emphasizes the importance of clear goals, stakeholder involvement, and coordination at the municipal and national levels for successful digitalization efforts. It also discusses the need for planning, project management, and training in implementing digital solutions, suggesting the use of contemporary project planning methods and the appointment of an IT coordinator within public health organizations. The article emphasizes the importance of interoperable digital epidemiology tools, transparency, and accessibility in data management, and concludes that a globally connected digitalization of the public health service is necessary for effective disease surveillance and prevention. [Extracted from the article]