The guide released by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality aims to help health systems and stakeholders evaluate and promote equity in healthcare solutions that use digital technologies. It emphasizes the importance of considering issues such as patient digital literacy and access to broadband, known collectively as the ‘digital divide.’
The guide suggests that addressing the digital divide and its effects on individual and community health requires a deliberate and intentional effort to prioritize equity throughout the development and implementation of digital healthcare solutions. By recognizing and addressing these disparities, health systems can work towards creating more inclusive and accessible healthcare solutions that benefit all individuals and communities.
Overall, this guide serves as a roadmap for health systems and stakeholders to navigate the complexities of integrating digital technologies into healthcare solutions while prioritizing equity and inclusivity. Taking proactive measures to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to healthcare solutions can help improve health outcomes and reduce disparities among diverse populations.