Bridging the Digital Divide: A Guide for Healthcare Systems and Stakeholders Promoting Equity in Digital Healthcare Solutions
The guide from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality is a valuable resource for health systems and stakeholders looking to promote equity in digital healthcare solutions. The guide emphasizes the importance of considering issues such as patient digital literacy and access to broadband, collectively known as the ‘digital divide,’ which can affect the effectiveness of digital healthcare solutions.
By addressing the digital divide and its effects on individual and community health, stakeholders can work towards creating more inclusive and accessible healthcare solutions that benefit all individuals and communities. This requires a deliberate and intentional effort to prioritize equity throughout the development and implementation of digital healthcare solutions.
The guide serves as a roadmap for health systems and stakeholders to navigate the complexities of integrating digital technologies into healthcare solutions while prioritizing equity and inclusivity. By taking proactive measures to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to healthcare solutions, stakeholders can help improve health outcomes and reduce disparities among diverse populations.