Dr. Fatima Roumate, International Institute of Scientific Research (IISR)

a. Introduction

The significant use of AI in healthcare, particularly after COVID-19, led to an increased global debate on AI and women’s health data governance. This topic is a cornerstone to enhance healthcare services, and it raised global efforts related to the ethical framework at international, regional, and national levels. The MENA region contributes to the global debate on this topic, particularly as AI health data governance is a universal problem which necessitates ethical standards and rules complied with international mechanisms. An effective governance framework related to this topic should be based on ethics and all values and principles included in the recommendation on ethics of AI adopted by UNESCO in 2021. In a sense, a study on AI and women’s health data governance is necessary to ensure no one is left behind. The case study's goal is to address the specific obstacles and risks related to the use of AI and women’s health data governance and suggest solutions in relation to the disparities between men and women in various sectors, including access to healthcare services and emerging technologies. 

This study is addressed to policymakers, researchers, and all relevant actors. It could facilitate the identification of best practices and the implementation of policy actions to reduce the gap between different countries in the MENA region.

b. Case Study and Fieldwork 

The aim of this study is to review the state of health data governance and the use of Artificial Intelligence by health services in Marrakech-Safi Region and how AI and digital transformation contribute to the improvement of women’s access to these services, creation of a database on the actual use of AI in different levels and sectors (public and private) and understanding tools and methods used by local actors to collect, manage and protect health data considering policy and legal framework adopted in Morocco. 

c. Methodological Approach 

The survey will be carried out through a partially structured questionnaire. The questionnaire is adapted to each organization and participants depend on the organization and the occupation of the participants (Nurses, Doctors, Responsible for data governance, authority in public or private hospitals or patients). The participants had the possibility to state any other parameters that are not reflected in the questionnaire. The questionnaire in general is partly open-ended to elicit the institution's experiences in AI and data governance.

As with any empirical questionnaire, its range of application is limited to 10 organizations  (public, private sector, associations, and individuals) asked to answer 40 questions. Multi-sectoral and gender approaches were considered during the creation of the questionnaires and when we identified the participants. Data (information) thus obtained is analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative (content analysis) techniques, and this analysis is presented in this Brief Case Study Report  which will be a part of the General Report highlighting the specificity of each country, making general propositions, and finally suggesting recommendations. This Report can be shared with the policymakers and the other stakeholders.

d. Priority/Key Findings and Policy Recommendations

Digital transformation is ongoing in the health sector. Significant efforts are being made by the government and health authorities in the Safi-Marrakech region. However, the path to complete digital transformation is still long, especially when it comes to rural areas and small entities. Ensuring the security and safety of data is central to this process, which is the main challenge imposed by AI and digital transformation in health data governance. In addition, the adoption of AI technologies is limited due to a lack of digital infrastructure and low  financial and human resources. Several solutions and recommendations were suggested in the study. 

The first policy recommendation emphasizes the importance of establishing a national AI strategy grounded in four key approaches: gender equality, human rights, participatory involvement, and territorial considerations. The second recommendation highlights the need to implement UNESCO’s guidelines on AI ethics to ensure transparency and trustworthiness. The third recommendation calls for increased investment in AI and health data governance. The fourth recommendation stresses the importance of training for professionals in both the public and private sectors on health data governance. Finally, the fifth recommendation focuses on strengthening international cooperation, both multilateral and bilateral, to facilitate the exchange of experiences and to secure additional funding sources.

e. Policy Webinars/Workshops

 The seminar brought together members of the International Institute of Scientific Research, representatives from the “Direction Régionale de la Santé Publique”, representatives of public and private health organizations, NGOs, health startups in Morocco, and media. The discussions centered on AI and women's health data governance, utilizing a multisectoral and multidisciplinary approach to better assess current and future opportunities and risks. Seminar’s Outcomes are significant and impactful. The first outcome is the involvement of multiple stakeholders in the discussion of this topic. The second outcome is a common understanding of the challenges and possible solutions, along with enhanced awareness among stakeholders about the importance of health data governance. The third outcome is that this discussion significantly contributed to the advancement of policy, practices, and collaborations in the field, particularly between government agencies, healthcare providers, academic institutions, and private sector entities. The final outcome is the development of substantial recommendations and policy actions for women's health data governance that align with national and international standards, considering ethical and legal frameworks.

f. Conclusion

Understanding AI data governance in the health sector of the Safi-Marrakech region requires considering the diverse maturity levels and engagement of stakeholders. Effective application of standards and regulations is crucial. Utilizing a range of data tools, from traditional to digital, is necessary for successful digital transformation in the health sector. While AI infrastructure is well-established in large organizations in urban areas and major cities, there is a need for greater consistency at the local level. This requires aligning with the National Strategy for Digital Transformation and National AI initiatives. Data governance is central to AI and digital transformation in health services in Morocco, reflecting the country's contributions to global efforts through organizations like UNESCO, OECD, and ITU. Strengthening cooperation between the government and multiple stakeholders is essential to ensure effective AI data governance in health services, particularly for women. Additionally, reinforcing international and bilateral cooperation between Morocco and other countries is necessary to improve AI data governance. This includes the exchange of best practices and advancements in AI technologies, research, and development for health.