SciDev.Net

Health workers in developing countries could soon be using mobile phones to send data about disease outbreaks and patient and drug information.

Trials of low-cost software installed on mobile phones are currently underway in Rwanda and Indonesia.

It would allow doctors working in remote locations to obtain lab test results, and access information on the spread of disease and treatments from a central database.

The software sends data through mobile phone networks, which are widespread in developing countries. It works across different handsets and phone operators.

The project is being run by Voxiva and the trade association for mobile operators, GSMA, who say mobile networks are the most immediate way to deliver vital health information.