Information Economy and Healthy Citizenry: Role of Internet in Implementing India's Health Policy
Internet Health 2004;3(1):e4The National Health Policy (NHP) formulated in 2002 by the Government of India mentions challenges facing the health care delivery in the country today. There is recognition of the changes in the health problems afflicting the society since the NHP-1983. The "Health transition" in the Indian health system poses new challenges that need to be tackled with the aid of information technology. The transition of India into an information economy presents opportunities to tap the information technologies, especially, Internet, for health care delivery. Internet as a medium of communication could help in coordinating the efforts to provide decentralized health services throughout the country under one umbrella. The extent of broadband penetration in recent years provides an opportunity to reach the masses and impart them health education. Promoting preventative care and self-care using the Internet could alleviate the financial burden on the government due to rising health care delivery costs while increasing the efficacy of health care delivery
The Role Of On-Line Cancer Support Groups In Enhancing Healthcare In Developing Countries- Case Study Of A Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Discussion Lis
Internet Health 2004;3(1):e2 We report here, the history and development of the first on-line chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) discussion list in Asia. This support group comprises of international participants and provides a unique conduit by which CML treatment information is transmitted from patients in developed countries to patients in semi-developed and developing countries. As a result, patient individual healthcare is enhanced in poorer nations. The discussion themes are described and through an on-line patient survey, the needs of patients in developing countries are compared to the needs of patients in developed countries. The role of the Internet in networking health information is highlighted and at the same time, some drawbacks of e-health are mentioned which make patient health information inaccessible in many parts of Asia.
Cost effectiveness analysis of intensive versus conventional follow up after curative resection for colorectal cancer
BMJ 2004;328:81 (10 January), Conclusions :Based on the available data and current costs, intensive follow up after curative resection for colorectal cancer is economically justified and should be normal practice. There is a continuing need to evaluate the efficacy of specific surveillance tools: this study forms the basis for economic evaluations in such trials.
