Digital Health and AI in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
By Sumona Bose
February 21, 2024
Introduction
Rising rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a significant threat to healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries. However, the advent of digital technology offers a glimmer of hope in effectively addressing this growing burden. With two-thirds of the world’s population subscribed to mobile services and the increasing accessibility of connectivity, the use of digital solutions and applications has the potential to transform health systems from reactive to proactive and even preventive.
One of the key advancements in digital health is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). By leveraging AI, health systems can become more predictive, detecting risk factors and enabling healthcare professionals to respond faster in preventing diseases. However, the rapid growth of digital health has also brought about challenges. The proliferation of digital health apps in both the public and private sectors has led to competition and overlap, while the collection and analysis of digital data remain fragmented, leaving some populations behind.
The Promise of Digital Health and AI in Preventive Care
To address these challenges, the Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development, established in 2010, has been at the forefront of advocating for the transformative impact of broadband technologies in healthcare. Its working group on digital and AI in health, co-chaired by the Novartis Foundation and industry leaders such as Nokia, Intel, and Microsoft, has conducted extensive research to identify common challenges and develop a framework for supporting digital health solutions.
The working group has identified six building blocks for digital health systems. These include formulating and executing a national digital health strategy, creating policy and regulatory frameworks that support innovation while ensuring security and privacy, ensuring access to digital infrastructure, promoting interoperability of digital health system components, establishing effective partnerships, and securing adequate financing.
Figure 1: Six building blocks for digital health systems.
Conclusion
By implementing these building blocks, countries can overcome the challenges associated with digital health and AI integration. Coordinated efforts, capacity building, and sustainable financing are crucial in harnessing the full potential of digital technology to improve healthcare outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
As the world continues to grapple with the burden of NCDs, we must embrace the opportunities presented by digital health and AI. By doing so, we can aid healthcare systems, empower healthcare professionals, and ultimately improve the health and well-being of populations in even the most resource-constrained settings.
🚀 Are pharmaceutical companies’ DTC telehealth partnerships reshaping healthcare for better or worse?
Recent findings from the “DTC Investigation 2025” report reveal key insights into the high prescription rates and potential risks of these digital platforms operated by giants like Pfizer and Eli Lilly. Alarmingly, inadequate clinical safeguards raise questions about patient safety, prescribing practices, and cost implications.
Dive into this critical discussion about the intersection of digital health and pharmaceutical practices, and explore what it means for the future of patient care.
🌟 How can personalized medicine transform breast cancer treatment in Spain?
The recent rollout of the MAF Test breast cancer in leading Spanish hospitals is set to revolutionize patient care by enabling targeted treatment strategies. This innovative molecular assay not only identifies patients who will benefit from bisphosphonates but also spares those for whom the treatment may be harmful, ultimately improving outcomes for thousands.
Dive into the article to discover how this approach aligns with global trends in oncology and enhances healthcare resource allocation.
🌟 Are we on the brink of transforming breast cancer treatment?
NICE’s latest guidance endorsing ribociclib in combination with an aromatase inhibitor marks a significant advancement for adults facing high-risk early breast cancer. This decision not only promises enhanced survival outcomes but also expands treatment options for patients historically limited to conventional therapies.
Dive into the details of this important development and learn how it may revolutionize patient care in the oncology landscape.
When you partner with Syenza, it’s like a Nuclear Fusion.
Our expertise are combined with yours, and we contribute clinical expertise and advanced degrees in
health policy, health economics, systems analysis, public finance, business, and project management. You’ll also feel our high-impact global and local perspectives with cultural intelligence.
