Digital health technologies (DHTs) have long promised to revolutionize healthcare access and outcomes. But a new review published in The Lancet Digital Health reminds us that their true transformative potential lies in how they empower individuals, particularly women.
The commentary, led by Israel Júnior Borges do Nascimento and colleagues from WHO Europe and other academic institutions, synthesizes findings from 80 studies across five databases and grey literature, painting a comprehensive picture of where we stand—and what’s still needed.
Digital Health as a Lever for Women’s Health and Empowerment
The review found strong links between digital tools and better health outcomes for women. Most of the studies showed that DHTs help women take charge of their health. They improve access to services, support self-care, and enable personalized health monitoring.
These tools were especially useful in areas like reproductive health, mental health, and chronic disease management. Mobile apps, telehealth platforms, and social media all played a role. Women used them to monitor pregnancies, track symptoms, get advice, and manage medications.
Beyond health, the digital tools also helped women learn new skills, connect with others, and make informed decisions. In fact, 84% of the studies linked DHTs with increased empowerment and gender equality.
But Barriers Remain
Despite these benefits, many women still face barriers when using digital health tools. The review highlighted more than 20 types of obstacles. These included the cost of devices, poor internet access, limited digital skills, and fear of privacy loss.
In low- and middle-income countries, the challenges were even greater. Many women could not afford the tools, or had no safe space to use them. Others worried about being monitored or judged by family or community members.
These issues prevent women from using digital health tools fully. If left unsolved, they could widen the gender gap instead of closing it.
Call to Action: Equity by Design
To ensure DHTs fulfill their potential, the authors propose a multi-stakeholder action plan. Key recommendations include:
- Expanding digital infrastructure, especially in underserved regions.
- Improving digital literacy, with targeted educational programs for women.
- Enhancing data on digital access to guide equitable policy design.
- Legislating for affordability, through subsidies and support mechanisms.
- Prioritizing cultural inclusivity by co-designing technologies with and for women.
As the commentary notes, tackling the digital gender gap isn’t just a technological challenge—it’s a social, economic, and political one. Empowering women through digital health means engaging communities, reforming policies, and building systems where gender is no longer a determinant of health access or outcomes.
Looking Ahead
With the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals looming, digital health has a clear role to play in achieving good health (Goal 3), gender equality (Goal 5), and reduced inequalities (Goal 10). But progress depends on deliberate, inclusive action.
As we design and deploy the next generation of health technologies, let’s remember: the future of digital health is not only about innovation—it’s about equity.
Digital tools can give women more control over their health and lives. But without access, education, and trust, their potential will stay out of reach for too many.
