Information Society Watch

May 17 2002, Patricia N. Mechael

This paper investigates the dynamics from the development of ICT to its use in society, and the various points in the process at which health impacts are yielded. This paper puts forward a framework for evaluation, by examining the life cycle of the adoption of ICT into society from conceptualisation to integration and examining the roles and interactions of each of the actors involved. It also provides a basis for considering the actions that can be taken to support the most appropriate, trustworthy, and enabling integration of ICT into society to support health as well as measures that can be taken to overcome barriers and avoid negative impacts on health by considering both applicability and adaptability of these ICTs. The paper stresses the need for use of technology to enhance a process by building on the existing patterns and infrastructure with the health delivery mechanisms.

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