Panel Position Statements

The western world enjoys a far greater degree of sophistication in computer technology than the developing world; challenges include the fact that infrastructure and resources in the developing world lag far behind; education to use and maintain the technology is often lacking; and cultural and societal issues prohibit its use. Questions include: What is the role of the first world in promoting more widespread use of technology for health informatics? What are the advantages to the first world in promoting more widespread use? What is the role of scientists in the first world in developing technology suitable for less technologically savvy regions? Should we interfere in cultures that do not use technology as we do? What can we practically expect to positively influence by engaging with developing world? How do we engage with the developing world in a sustainable way? Finally, modern vaccines have made huge differences in health the world over; can we expect similar positive transformation from increased computer/information technology in the developing world?