Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Funding Guide and Simulation: Using Technology to Improve Environmental Health
Abstract
113 million Americans searched for health information in 2006 (Arnst, 2009). In the U.S internet tools can empower public health professionals with data to target environmental issues and use existing infrastructures to support these efforts. In the global arena, there are some 1.1 billion without access to drinking water (Chamberlain, 2008). In this report the author simulates a funding project from the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation to improve environmental health outcomes in both the U.S. and worldwide.
Environmental Health Reporting and Web 2.0
In the United States environmental health issues are more complex than they are in other areas across the globe. Because of a diverse climate, geographical region and a diverse population, American health professionals face greater challenges each day. As these challenges unfold, so do new tools. Major advances in analytical and reporting technologies allow professionals to use data to target the largest problems. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) should be funded with $10 billion for local and federal health agencies to tap into and use this data in a meaningful way. Choi, Afzal, & Sattler reported in 2006 that GIS tools quickly allow health professionals to create custom maps with multiple data elements. One example prepared a lead exposure map which included clinical details from medical records, and layered that data over homes that were built before 1978. To supplement this decision support process, an additional $20 million should fund a cellphone based environmental health application. This software will allow consumers to submit photos and GPS data as well as research environmental health topics.
Health Technologies and Internet Use
Web 2.0 is changing the way consumers interact with healthcare providers. Newer technologies focus on patient autonomy and describe today’s... [continues]
Abstract
113 million Americans searched for health information in 2006 (Arnst, 2009). In the U.S internet tools can empower public health professionals with data to target environmental issues and use existing infrastructures to support these efforts. In the global arena, there are some 1.1 billion without access to drinking water (Chamberlain, 2008). In this report the author simulates a funding project from the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation to improve environmental health outcomes in both the U.S. and worldwide.
Environmental Health Reporting and Web 2.0
In the United States environmental health issues are more complex than they are in other areas across the globe. Because of a diverse climate, geographical region and a diverse population, American health professionals face greater challenges each day. As these challenges unfold, so do new tools. Major advances in analytical and reporting technologies allow professionals to use data to target the largest problems. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) should be funded with $10 billion for local and federal health agencies to tap into and use this data in a meaningful way. Choi, Afzal, & Sattler reported in 2006 that GIS tools quickly allow health professionals to create custom maps with multiple data elements. One example prepared a lead exposure map which included clinical details from medical records, and layered that data over homes that were built before 1978. To supplement this decision support process, an additional $20 million should fund a cellphone based environmental health application. This software will allow consumers to submit photos and GPS data as well as research environmental health topics.
Health Technologies and Internet Use
Web 2.0 is changing the way consumers interact with healthcare providers. Newer technologies focus on patient autonomy and describe today’s... [continues]
Cite This Essay
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(2011, 12). Improvements to Environmental Health. StudyMode.com. Retrieved 12, 2011, from http://www.studymode.com/essays/Improvements-To-Environmental-Health-884221.html
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"Improvements to Environmental Health" StudyMode.com. 12 2011. 12 2011 <http://www.studymode.com/essays/Improvements-To-Environmental-Health-884221.html>.
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"Improvements to Environmental Health." StudyMode.com. 12, 2011. Accessed 12, 2011. http://www.studymode.com/essays/Improvements-To-Environmental-Health-884221.html.
