Mobile technology is becoming a key platform for social programs thanks to its ubiquity, low cost and ease of use. Mobile services are being used to disseminate information and monitor users of health- and education-related programs. In developing regions, the prevalence of mobile devices far surpasses that of PCs and even of specialized workers, thus making it the ideal technology to reach a large proportion of the population (see exhibit). The supporting roles of mobile operators and vendors enabling various applications are also creating new opportunities. Pyramid Research has identified a variety of social programs that leverage mobile technologies, including a number in Nigeria, Uganda, South Africa and India.
Evidence of the impact of mobile technologies in social programs is growing. A prominent example is Project Masiluleke in South Africa, which is raising awareness of HIV/AIDS and reminds sufferers of treatment sessions via SMS alerts. This program is to be introduced in other countries, but it will also be replicated for other diseases, such as tuberculosis.
Pyramid Research sees significant potential for the use of mobile technology across social programs, particularly in healthcare in emerging markets. Mobile operators and vendors can participate in these programs effectively and promote new applications to enter the healthcare and education markets. Also, with the population perceiving the impact of mobile technologies across more aspects of their daily lives, there is greater incentive for governments to promote the development of the overall telecom industry.
Healthcare Programs in Emerging Markets: Opportunities for Mobile Operators looks at the role of mobile network operators and vendors in social programs, in particular healthcare, referencing many examples throughout, mostly ones from Africa and India. Going into more detail, case studies examine four of the most prominent and successful programs — in Nigeria, Uganda, South Africa and India, all focusing on the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Our analysis highlights the benefits to operators and vendors of becoming involved in such projects. These include the overall industry growth resulting from governments and NGOs investing in various initiatives as well as the opportunity to advance new services as users grow increasingly aware of applications beyond voice.
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