Cell Phones: More than just texting about Justin Bieber? – Tech4BtrWorld

Posted on 17. May, 2011 by Rob in Technology

Today’s post was written by Tech4BtrWorld campaign intern Lauren Viehbacher.

Everyone loves cell phones. We use them to call people, text 24/7, take photos, share videos, use funny emoticons, and annoy parents at the dinner table. But what if cell phones were used to do something more?

What if cell phones could save lives?

They can. Ashoka is helping start Healthpoint Services Global, Inc. in order to build a sustainable model to improve health in developing countries.

The initiative addresses critical issues of water sanitation, access to medical care, and quality of medication. Water and healthcare are the linchpins of society – poor standards are life threatening and undermine the success of a community. According to UN statistics, more than one in six people worldwide – 894 million – don’t have access to safe freshwater. This leads to a slew of dangerous issues; notably, diarrhea is the world’s leading cause of illness and death (http://www.unwater.org/statistics_san.html). If water systems were improved, many of these issues would be easily prevented.

Healthpoint Service workers go door-to-door and using cell phones to provide consumer education, patient follow-up, and rural service delivery. This brilliant use of technology helps extend the reach of the medical centers and keep tabs on patients. Many people don’t have the time or the money for healthcare, so this service allows people access to and the information for good medical choices. It’s exciting that cell phones are being used to inform people and to encourage medical treatment, while being cost-efficient and convenient.

Do you have any ideas on how to use cell phones to make a difference?

If you do, apply to the Technology for a Better World Campaign by May 16th!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jerri-chou/ashoka-announces-fellow-p_b_781648.html