Equality through Innovation: Promoting Women in the Workplace in Low- and Middle-Income Countries with Health Information Technology

Technological innovation has served as a useful catalyst for development goals across sectors, from agriculture to education. Various forms of health information technology (HIT), such as mobile health and telemedicine, have been used globally to support health care delivery systems. Forms of HIT, developed primarily by men in rich countries, are touted to support all patients and providers. However, while women perform most global health delivery, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), they have less access to technology. Stakeholders have been slow to recognize and resolve conflicts about how technology affects gender disparities, especially in health care. In this paper, we describe, using a social capital framework, how integrating HIT in health systems can empower women in the health care workforce. We conclude with policy recommendations that can support women in the health care workforce through HIT