Access to ICT in the Pacific Islands region: a brief report

Abstract

Abstract Mobile technologies are an essential component necessary for the functioning of contemporary health systems. The advent of digital health represents a logical collaboration between the need for greater efficiencies in health service delivery and systems and the rapid expansion of personal mobile devices. Worldwide mobile subscriptions are expected to reach 8.9bn, smartphone subscriptions 7.2bn and mobile broadband 8.3bn 1. For many countries, mobile subscriptions exceed population numbers; the Pacific Islands region is no different 1. Yet within the region huge diversity in access to information and communication technologies (ICT) contributes to gradual progress in implementing digital health initiatives that could accelerate and extend measures to improve public health.