Access: How Do Good Health Technologies Get to Poor People in Poor Countries?

by Laura Frost, Michael R. Reich (Editor), Howard Thompson (Contributor)

Many people in developing countries lack access to health technologies, even basic ones. Why do these problems in access persist? What can be done to improve access to good health technologies, especially for poor people in poor countries?

This book answers those questions by developing a comprehensive analytical framework for access and examining six case studies to explain why some health technologies achieved more access than others. The technologies include praziquantel (for the treatment of schistosomiasis), hepatitis B vaccine, malaria rapid diagnostic tests, vaccine vial monitors for temperature exposure, the Norplant implant contraceptive, and female condoms.

Based on research studies commissioned by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to better understand the development, adoption, and uptake of health technologies in poor countries, the book concludes with specific lessons on strategies to improve access. These lessons will be of keen interest to students of health and development, public health professionals, and health technology developers―all who seek to improve access to health technologies in poor countries.

249 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2009

About the author

Laura Catherine Frost is Chair of Liberal Studies, Associate Professor of Literary Studies at the Eugene Lang College of The New School for Liberal Arts.

Reviews

[Moona · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Access" offers a penetrating analysis of the challenges surrounding the distribution of health technologies in developing nations. Frost and Reich, alongside contributors, dissect the intricacies of access through compelling case studies spanning various technologies. From vaccines to contraceptives, they unravel why some innovations flourish while others falter in reaching those in need. Backed by research commissioned by the Gates Foundation, this book equips readers with actionable insights to enhance access strategies. A must-read for students, public health practitioners, and developers committed to bridging the gap in healthcare access worldwide.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the insights into the pitfalls and challenges associated with implementing new health technologies in developing countries. A practical read and good one for those interested in global and public health, albeit dry and often boring.

[Rose Sun · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'd recommend this book for individuals interested in learning more about how health technology policies are crafted, important stakeholders that help lobby and implement these policies, and challenges encountered in the field during implementation. The book provided several examples of health technologies and the reasons why some policies worked effectively and why others did not.