Use of mobile devices(mhealth) to promote health in Africa

Abstract

Among the many difficulties in Africa’s Healthcare system has been inadequate infrastructure, labor shortages, and obstacles to obtaining good treatment, particularly in rural areas. Mobile health (mHealth) technology has thus appeared as a revolutionary way to close healthcare disparities all throughout the continent. This scoping study sought to outline the advantages of mHealth in enhancing African healthcare systems and provide a summary of the present research on the subject. The primary study topic was: How can mHealth assist the African healthcare system? Scientific databases including CINAHL, PubMed, and MEDLINE were systematically searched to gather data. A total of 1,336 relevant papers were found and examined using specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results were mapped using thematic content analysis. By means of remote maternity and postnatal care, palliative treatments, and higher kid immunization rates, the research found mHealth increases access to healthcare. It also improves public health education, helps disease surveillance and emergency responses, and offers training and diagnostic assistance to healthcare professionals. These developments were mostly driven by real-time data tools, teleconsultations, and mobile messaging. Ultimately, by improving access, efficiency, and involvement, mHealth has shown great promise in changing healthcare delivery in Africa. Still major subjects needing further research, however, are those connected to infrastructure, digital literacy, and policy integration.