Access to imaging technology in the developing world

Abstract

Diagnostic imaging technologies have changed the way physicians both diagnose and manage patients. Unfortunately, as per the World Health Organization (WHO), almost two-thirds of the world, primarily in developing countries, lacks access to basic imaging technology. Clearly a shocking statistic, it puts into the limelight another key point: How does one define access? This chapter begins by exploring the various aspects that make up the term access before delving into not only what diagnostic technologies are essential in the developing world but also how the WHO has gone about measuring access to imaging technology around the world. In addition, it sheds light on the steps that remain to determine the overall gap in adequate access to diagnostic imaging technology. By understanding what has been done and what remains to be done, one can construct a better picture of how to close the gap in access to imaging technology around the word.