Paper Number
2434
Paper Type
Complete Research Paper
Abstract
The digitalization of the healthcare sector has been embraced globally due to its promise to enhance the accessibility and quality of healthcare. However, these benefits remain inaccessible to a significant portion of the global population. Adding to the discussion on the digital divide, this paper investigates the integration of vulnerable populations, specifically women, elderly, and youth, into national digital health strategies. Employing computer-assisted text analysis procedures, we explore topical priorities and inclusivity of existing strategies. Our findings indicate heterogeneity in strategic priorities and varying degrees of inclusivity. By identifying key themes in digital health strategies, we contribute to research and practice, providing a comprehensive overview of emerging patterns across income groups. Our examination of vulnerable populations contributes to extant research on the digital divide, shedding light on potential risks of widening digital skill and access gaps. Our study underscores the importance of equitable access to digital healthcare services.
Recommended Citation
Zajac, Kimsey; Braun, Marvin; Klein, Julia; and Kolbe, Lutz M., "Towards Digital Health Equity? — Assessing the Inclusivity of National Digital Health Strategies for Vulnerable Groups" (2024). ECIS 2024 Proceedings. 7.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/ecis2024/track01_peoplefirst/track01_peoplefirst/7
Towards Digital Health Equity? — Assessing the Inclusivity of National Digital Health Strategies for Vulnerable Groups
The digitalization of the healthcare sector has been embraced globally due to its promise to enhance the accessibility and quality of healthcare. However, these benefits remain inaccessible to a significant portion of the global population. Adding to the discussion on the digital divide, this paper investigates the integration of vulnerable populations, specifically women, elderly, and youth, into national digital health strategies. Employing computer-assisted text analysis procedures, we explore topical priorities and inclusivity of existing strategies. Our findings indicate heterogeneity in strategic priorities and varying degrees of inclusivity. By identifying key themes in digital health strategies, we contribute to research and practice, providing a comprehensive overview of emerging patterns across income groups. Our examination of vulnerable populations contributes to extant research on the digital divide, shedding light on potential risks of widening digital skill and access gaps. Our study underscores the importance of equitable access to digital healthcare services.
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