It has always been difficult to apply the latest digital tools to humanitarian and global health challenges due to problems such as remote locations, unreliable electricity and underdeveloped communications infrastructure. However, innovative applications, platforms and databases are making it possible to improve emergency responses and medical care in many countries, from Haiti to Rwanda. Moderated by Ross Reynolds, host of “The Conversation” on Seattle public radio station KUOW, four information technology experts will discuss what it takes to adapt digital tools to meet the humanitarian and medical needs of the world’s most vulnerable people. Panelists will include:
- Megan McGuire, health informatics coordinator for Doctors Without Borders
- Darius Jazayeri, Seattle-based lead software developer for Partners in Health
- Yaw Anokwa, Seattle-based founder of Nafundi and co-creator of Open Data Kit
- Bill Lober, joint associate professor at the University of Washington and Director of Informatics at International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH)