Resources

Cyber incidents and attacks are rapidly increasing, impacting countries and systems across multiple sectors. Essential services connected to the internet, such as hospitals and ambulance services, have been significantly affected. The data security status of digital health systems in Africa is improving. But it faces several challenges, including lack of policies focused on data security for health, limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled personnel across health systems levels.In 2024, PATH supported data security capacity-strengthening activities in three countries across West, Central, and Southern Africa.Discussions involving stakeholders in these countries identified potential areas for data security support. These include enhancing data governance through developing health data privacy, confidentiality, and security guidelines; establishing structures for sustaining a secure data environment; emphasizing the importance of conducting scans of electronic health information systems to identify vulnerabilities and best practices; and working collaboratively with in-country stakeholders to ensure a progressively high standard of data security and privacy.

In 2014, PATH conducted research and interviews to understand a key question of the time: why was it challenging to scale digital health interventions in low- and middle-income countries?This research resulted in the publication The Journey to Scale, a reflection on why common information and communication technology (ICT) approaches to support health programs were not working at scale.Since the publication of The Journey to Scale a decade ago, much has changed. Today, digital technology is even more present in our lives and is an integral part of health care delivery in many geographies. And, while not all stakeholders and partners have taken the same actions and countries have not universally experienced the same level of progress, improved collaboration and implementation practices have helped to advance the quality and accessibility of health care in the digital age. But how far have we come in the journey to move beyond isolated, small-scale pilots to integrated information systems that are driven by local leaders and enabled by committed, long-term funding and robust governance mechanisms?As we reflect on and celebrate the progress and evolution of digital transformation in the global health sector, we are also looking at how we can further improve health and lives with digital tools and the health data that is now more accessible and usable because of these digital tools. This report is intended to provide a high-level overview of key trends and shifts in global digital health practice over the last ten years and provide reflections on where progress can be accelerated in future years by addressing ongoing challenges such as lack of data interoperability, insufficient cybersecurity policies and practices, and the need for sustainable financing models.

This Target Product Profile (TPP) outlines the specifications for a multimodal pulse oximeter - a noninvasive device designed to measure oxygen saturation, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and additional clinical parameters such as temperature, hemoglobin, and blood pressure.The TPP includes detailed guidance on product use, performance characteristics, design considerations, cost expectations, and channels to market. It also incorporates feedback from a global consensus survey, as well as insights from discussions with manufacturers and national stakeholders in Kenya, Senegal, and Tanzania.Additional resources:Advancing next-generation pulse oximeters and AI-assisted health toolsTechnology and Market Landscape (developed by PATH and Unitaid, 2022)Tools for Integrated Management of Childhood Illness project

As digital tools increasingly shape how health services are delivered, community health workers (CHWs) must be equipped with the foundational skills to navigate this new reality. This report presents a comprehensive framework for digital literacy designed specifically for CHWs working in low- and middle-income settings.Grounded in extensive consultations across Africa, the framework outlines:Three levels of digital proficiency (foundational, intermediate, advanced)Seven core competency areas, from device operations to interpersonal communicationCross-cutting skills like AI awareness, problem-solving, and data governanceThis framework is a practical guide for policymakers, implementing partners, and digital health advocates to strengthen CHW capacity and close the digital gender gap.

Digital health transformation starts with people. This curriculum offers a structured, hands-on training program to build the digital literacy of community health workers, aligned with the foundational framework developed by Digital Square.The curriculum includes:8 practical modules, from basic device use to digital financial transactionsReady-to-use learning activities for trainersGuidance for in-person, online, or blended deliveryEmphasis on ethical digital use and cybersecurityCreated with input from frontline workers and ministry partners, this curriculum ensures CHWs are digitally empowered to support their communities with confidence and professionalism.