Until the recent economic crises, emerging markets such as Brazil, Russia, India, China and Mexico planned to substantially raise healthcare expenditures to better meet the needs of their populations. World Health Organization assessments highlighted opportunities for reducing maternal and infant deaths; preventing, detecting and treating communicable diseases such as HIV/AIDS and malaria; restricting the use of wood stoves to prevent respiratory infections; and, increasing access to clinics and hospitals.

Many emerging markets have not yet fully established their healthcare infrastructure, and in some locales, even basic health care is unavailable. Wireless technologies are proving to be effective tools in reaching underserved areas and in providing expert medical care irrespective of geography and infrastructure.

The United Nations Foundation has identified promising wireless applications for underserved populations around the world and has formed the mHealth Alliance to advance these applications. Current projects include:

• Using text messages to promote HIV testing in South Africa
• Using phone 'pill reminders' in Thailand to enhance tuberculosis drug adherence
• Enhancing training for healthcare workers in the Caribbean region
• Facilitating diagnostic and treatment support by specialists in urban areas around the world

The Institute will be exploring innovative opportunities to enhance health and wellbeing and close the gap on health disparities in underserved communities in the United States and globally.