Dignity-Preserving Technology: Addressing Global Health Disparities in Vulnerable Populations

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed critical flaws in global healthcare systems, including challenges in mass testing and lack of incentives to adhere to social distancing and other public health guidelines. Compounding these challenges, unemployment and other services to help vulnerable populations have crashed under the weight of unprecedented user volume. While big tech companies have begun to offer support, their business models conflict with the need for embedded privacy protections that citizens all over the world deserve.

• Discuss what Dignity-Preserving Technology is and how it can enhance a patient's experience, access to care, and health outcomes through the healthcare life cycle.
• Explore the role of emerging innovations and technologies, including blockchain and machine learning, in addressing challenges in veteran healthcare.
• Describe incentive mechanisms necessary for vulnerable populations in the United States and around the world, specifically the different challenges in creating a more connected health system globally.