History and recent facts reveal a disturbing trend towards a degradation of civilizations around the world due to a new class of global problem that may be termed unbounded, complex problem sets. These problems exhibit the characteristics of complex systems as defined by recent discoveries in complexity science, quantum theory, economic theory, information theory, software science and the social sciences. They form networks of entangled problem groups, each complex in its own way, yet not contained by any geographic boundaries, local environments, or advanced technologies. The solutions to such problems overflow any single discipline, industry, government, environment or culture.  How societies choose to address these types of problems may well determine if they fail or succeed in the future.

Science and engineering are now engaged in a high stakes game to find practical and feasible solutions to these ever changing problems and human health has emerged as one of the most critical issues on the table. The concept of Smart Healthy Cities has recently evolved as a centerpiece design for future of health systems around the world and SDPS2013 will bring fresh new approaches to address the massive complexity and “interconnectedness” of this issue. SDPS2013 combines science and engineering with practical experience and insights to seek new solutions to this most basic of modern human needs. 

Various entities of society are redefining themselves to play an effective role in developing new approaches to the Smart-Healthy-Cities' paradigm by adapting models of engineering, measurement, knowledge integration, and competence towards improving healthy and strong and prosperous societies within our environments. To accomplish this goal, we must align science, technology, engineering, management, the arts towards integrative approaches based on human needs—releasing an educational and transectoral transformation through robust and effective transdisciplinary means.