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. 2024 Sep 9:2:oqae033.
doi: 10.1093/oodh/oqae033. eCollection 2024.

Strengthening the evidence base on the use of digital health technologies to accelerate progress towards universal health coverage

Mathilde Forslund  1 , Kirsten Mathieson  1 , Yacine Djibo  2 , Caroline Mbindyo  3 , Neema Lugangira  4 , Priya Balasubramaniam  5
Affiliations

Strengthening the evidence base on the use of digital health technologies to accelerate progress towards universal health coverage

Mathilde Forslund et al. Oxf Open Digit Health. .

Abstract

Digital health and the digital transformation of health systems are an enabler and accelerator to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in low- and middle-income countries. This can help close equity gaps, enhance primary healthcare, and improve efficiency and health outcomes. However, the digital health landscape is characterized by fragmented initiatives and investments, insufficient political will, and inadequate governance of health data. This special collection of Oxford Open Digital Health showcases impacts of digital health interventions and approaches towards expanded healthcare access and improved health outcomes. This commentary makes the case for policy innovation and leadership, improved investments, robust health data governance and a people-centred approach to leverage the benefits of digital health transformation. Prioritizing these areas can enhance the accessibility, affordability, and quality of care, towards UHC goals.

Keywords: digital health transformation; digital tools; health equity; health outcomes; primary healthcare; universal health coverage.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors did not receive support from any organization for the submitted article. The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

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