Use of mobile phones as a tool for United States health diplomacy abroad.
Rapidly emerging mobile communications platforms, such as mobile phones, in countries across Africa, Iraq, and Afghanistan offer new opportunities for direct public engagement in health systems, placing tools and timely information into the hands of those who need it most. Early results from pioneering work suggest real benefits of mobile devices in addressing access to care, monitoring and treating diseases, and providing continuous medical education and training. The Military Health System, a $43-billion global healthcare system within the U.S. Department of Defense, in partnership with other U.S. government agencies and nongovernmental organizations and the international health sector, can make valuable contributions to creating a sustainable global m-health infrastructure.
Kosaraju
Akhila
A
Health Affairs, Department of Defense, Washington, District of Columbia 20301, USA. akhila.kosaraju@ha.osd.mil
Barrigan
Cynthia R
CR
Poropatich
Ronald K
RK
Casscells
Samuel Ward
SW
D000346:Afghanistan; D000349:Africa; D040421:Cell Phone / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D034201:Computers, Handheld / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D014943:Global Health; D006291:Health Policy; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D007391:International Cooperation; D007493:Iraq; D008887:Military Medicine / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011634:Public Health; D012066:Relief Work; D014481:United States