Legal and Regulatory Frameworks for International Health Data Sharing: A Comprehensive Review of Cross-Border Health Data Management During Pandemics

Abstract

Background: In recent decades, the global health landscape has been increasingly challenged by pandemics, underscoring the need for effective cross-border health data sharing. The COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies how interconnectedness can facilitate the rapid spread of infectious diseases, necessitating robust legal and regulatory frameworks to manage health data across borders. This narrative review synthesizes the current literature on the legal and regulatory challenges associated with international health data sharing.

Methods: We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of published studies, governmental reports, and guidelines from reputable sources, including PubMed, Scopus, and WHO documentation, focusing on the last four years. Our analysis reveals significant disparities in vaccination access, approval processes, and technological infrastructure among countries, which complicate the global implementation of Digital Health Passports (DHPs).

Results: Key findings indicate that inequitable vaccine distribution, varying regulatory standards, and digital divides hinder the effectiveness of DHPs in pandemic management. Furthermore, our review highlights the necessity for international cooperation to establish harmonized regulatory standards and practices that safeguard individual privacy while facilitating data sharing.

Conclusions: In conclusion, addressing the geographical and operational barriers to effective health data sharing is crucial for enhancing global pandemic response strategies. The findings underscore the importance of developing flexible and adaptive frameworks that can effectively respond to future health crises. Collaborative efforts among governments, international organizations, and technology providers are essential to overcoming existing challenges and ensuring equitable access to health data across borders.