We develop and implement mHealth apps to create awareness in target populations, streamline processes and empower governments to monitor their health care system. We aim to strengthen health systems and improve health outcomes of poor and medically underserved communities. We employ Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to support the assessment, development and implementation of eHealth activities and programmes of our clients in Asia and Africa.

The eHealth programmes that we support improve the health status of communities in which AKDN operates by linking health institutions and health providers, promoting comprehensive and coordinated care to communities and minimising the barriers of distance and time. Through the introduction and application of ICTs, we:

• improve the quality of healthcare provision;
• make health care accessible to people with reduced access;
• build capacity of healthcare professionals; and ultimately
• strengthen health systems in LMICs.

We focus on service delivery, research and product development.

Digital Health

Digital health is the use of electronic means such as Information and Communication Technology to improve the quality of care, enhance the managerial and clinical capacities of health personnel, promote relevant research, share information for decision-support and promote behaviour change among communities living in rural and isolated areas (World Health Organization).

Our applications comprise:

Teleconsultations

Consultation at a distance via video conferencing or store-and-forward mode; resulting in improved access to timely information, improved diagnosis and as a result, improved care.

eLearning

Professional development and capacity building via ICT to facilitate distance learning among health professionals, to increase their knowledge and enhance clinical and managerial skills. eLearning builds knowledge about eHealth, allowing health professionals to become comfortable with using eHealth tools.

mHealth

Mobile devices and mobile connectivity supporting health-related activities, thereby enhancing health promotion, disease prevention and behavioural change communication.

Health Informatics

Capturing, processing, storing and retrieving health and business-related information; thereby improving access to patient information and decision-making for the health of individuals. Health informatics also promotes business intelligence – using data in a meaningful way to make more informed health decisions.