Digital health and COVID-19

The digital divide – the gap between communities that have the resources required to access digital health services and those that don’t – is another matter of concern. Disparities in digital literacy and access to equipment, broadband, and the internet will only become more important as digital health becomes more prevalent. However, digital health is vital that governments continue to develop and implement robust, context-specific national strategies, working closely with the private sector to make sure that the patient data collected as a result of digital interactions are properly protected. It has to be realized that implementing digital health is about more than simply deploying new technologies or devices. It requires system-level thinking and a coherent national strategy that comprises effective legislation, regulations, and oversight – all of which are needed to ensure quality, safety and security, and interoperability of digital health services, including telemedicine.

a:1:{i:0;s:39:"http://dx.doi.org/10.2471/BLT.20.021120";}

Humphreys, G. (2020) Digital health and COVID-19. Bulletin of the World Health Organization 2020;98:731-732.