Original Post By: www.devex.com
As digital health tools evolve at an unprecedented pace, a critical challenge looms—ensuring these advancements promote health equity rather than exacerbate existing disparities. The recent United Nations General Assembly and global discussions have underscored the urgency of addressing equity in health technology. Rajni Samavedam, CEO of Rabin Martin, offers a compelling perspective on this pressing issue, emphasizing the intersection of digital health, gender equity, and inclusivity.
The Intersection of Digital Health and Equity
Rabin Martin, a global health strategy consulting firm, collaborates with private sector companies, nonprofits, and foundations to expand access to healthcare solutions in high-, middle-, and low-income countries. According to Samavedam, the rapid growth of digital health tools necessitates a deliberate focus on equity. Without this lens, innovations risk perpetuating divides, particularly along gender and intersectional lines.
“It’s really important that we keep these discussions alive,” Samavedam told Devex. She highlighted the need for public, private, and nonprofit sectors to co-create a more inclusive digital health ecosystem. This collaborative approach could help reshape frameworks, policies, and regulations, fostering health equity before disparities deepen further.
The Gender Gap in Digital Health
Despite making up 51% of the global population, women remain significantly underrepresented in clinical trials and health research. These gaps extend into the design and deployment of digital health tools, many of which fail to consider the diverse needs of women across different cultural and socioeconomic contexts.
Women, especially in low- and middle-income countries, face unique barriers when accessing digital health technologies. These barriers include limited education, restricted autonomy in purchasing and using these tools, and culturally driven limitations.
“Many tools do not account for the different cultural contexts,” Samavedam noted, pointing to variations in acceptance and usability based on age, region, and community norms. Addressing these gaps requires an inclusive design approach that prioritizes the voices and experiences of women and marginalized groups.
A Call to Action
Samavedam sees this moment as a pivotal opportunity to rewrite the narrative of digital health. By actively incorporating equity into the design, regulation, and implementation of health technologies, stakeholders can ensure a future where innovation serves everyone.
As the digital health landscape continues to grow, the conversation around equity must remain central. Women and diverse communities play a vital role in shaping this future, and their inclusion is key to building a truly equitable global health ecosystem.
At Ethica Nexus Consulting, we stand committed to fostering inclusive policies and practices in the digital health space. Together, we can bridge the digital divide and create a more just and equitable health future for all.
