Low-Cost Mobile Technology
Making health related mobile technology more available to resource limited settings
Empowering Communities with Mobile Health Solutions
In the face of global health challenges, early detection and intervention are essential. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it became evident that one out of every ten individuals diagnosed with the virus may require supplemental oxygen for survival. This underscores the critical need for accessible health monitoring tools, especially in resource-limited settings.
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The Role of Oxygen Saturation Meters
Oxygen saturation meters, or pulse oximeters, are simple yet powerful devices that measure the level of oxygen in a person's blood. These low-cost tools are pivotal in rapidly identifying those who need oxygen therapy, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively. They also provide reassurance to others, helping to reserve vital oxygen supplies for those who truly need them.
SiGH's Impact Through Community Sharing Programs
At Specialists in Global Health (SiGH), we are committed to maximizing the impact of health technologies in underserved communities. Our Pulse Oximeter Lending Program, made possible through a generous grant from SiGH, facilitates community sharing of oxygen saturation meters.
A single device can be disinfected and shared among ten or more individuals, demonstrating that for every meter shared, potentially one life could be saved.
This program is a testament to SiGH's mission to enhance health outcomes in low-resource settings by providing essential tools where they are most needed. By donating to this initiative, you can help us purchase these vital devices at bulk pricing, ensuring they can be distributed free of charge to communities that need them the most.
Advancements in Mobile Health Technology
Innovative research supported by SiGH has revealed that smartphone pulse oximeters can significantly enhance healthcare delivery, particularly in low-resource environments. Some smartphones, such as the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S10, have integrated pulse oximetry capabilities that meet FDA standards for accuracy. This opens up new possibilities for health monitoring in households around the world.
With over 100 million smartphones equipped with this technology currently in circulation, we have a unique opportunity to empower patients to monitor their oxygen levels and heart rates from home. This capability not only aids in managing COVID-19 but can also be applied to other respiratory illnesses, such as the flu and tuberculosis.
Why Your Support is Crucial
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted existing inequities in access to accurate health monitoring tools. Many current devices available for home use are costly and may lack reliability. At SiGH, we are dedicated to bridging this gap by providing low-cost, accurate pulse oximeters to communities in need. Your support enables SiGH to continue its mission of improving health outcomes in resource-limited settings.