Digital technologies (DTs) are viewed as critical for the development of public health services in geographically disadvantaged regions, with the ability to transform healthcare and contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 3 “Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages”. Nevertheless, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that its potential remains largely untapped, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This research is driven by the immense, yet unrealized potential of DTs to advance access and quality of care in LMICs. It commences with a review of the literature on healthcare-focused ICT for Development to identify key topics of focus within academia. Next, the UNDP Human Development Reports (HDRs), a widely recognized resource for discussions on critical global issues were reviewed for topics on health. As a result, key areas of focus from the ICT4D healthcare literature and the HDRs were comparatively analysed to develop a concept diagram illustrating shared and distinct issues discussed. This analysis assesses how well ICT4D research addresses global health challenges recognized in the HDRs. Among other issues, this analysis reveals the need for further attention to health threats due to environmental degradation, health issues for marginalized populations, and health inequalities. Further, this study proposes an agenda for future research highlighting the accessibility, adoption, and use of innovative digital health solutions for critical health challenges faced by populations in geographically disadvantaged regions. Lastly, it discusses the potential implications of the proposed research agenda for both research and practice.
Digital Health Technologies in Geographically Disadvantaged Regions: A Comparative Assessment of the ICT4D Literature and UNDP Reports
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