Thirteenth International Conference on Health, Wellness & Society

Abstract

Science & Technology Studies has described the computational translation of health information as ‘datafication’ often from a critical stance in which such technologies limit agency of patients and clinicians. Conversely, healthcare has long since been structured along highly unequal lines with high levels of inequity in which parts of the population experience reduced healthcare access. In addition, there are high levels of high illiteracy where some groups are not only unaware of their own health needs or how to access healthcare, but the healthcare system is itself lacking key information on the needs of those individuals. In that context, digital systems that can handle and communicate large data sets are often heralded as a solution for better connecting patients and the healthcare system within a holistic model. Outlining these theoretical (and often hyperbolic) discussions, the paper looks to the example of digital health – both implemented and potential – within Skåne in Southern Sweden, with a mix of an advanced welfare model healthcare system combined with a diverse population consisting of many foreign-born nationals. Interviewing professionals working with healthcare delivery in Skåne, we investigate the intersection between the theoretical arguments and the practical constraints and opportunities for digital health. We discuss to what extent such technology may lead to widening healthcare and wellbeing for a diverse population (emancipation) or worsen existing inequalities (oppression).