Bridging the gap in rural and underserved areas through AI‐enabled solutions

Healthcare disparities between urban and rural populations remain one of the most pressing challenges in global health. In underserved areas, patients face numerous obstacles, including a lack of healthcare infrastructure, long distances to medical facilities, shortages of skilled professionals, and limited access to real-time medical resources. These challenges result in poor health outcomes, higher mortality rates, and increased disease burden in rural communities. However, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative tool in addressing these healthcare gaps. By leveraging AI-driven solutions, we can create sustainable and scalable healthcare models that improve access, enhance the quality of care, and optimise resources for underserved populations. This article explores how AI is revolutionising rural healthcare, with a focus on the practical applications that can make a meaningful difference.

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Publication Details

Journal
South African Medical Journal
Published
2025-05-30
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7196/samj.2025.v115i5b.3670
Primary Topic
Smart Cities and Technologies
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

Bridging the gap in rural and underserved areas through AI‐enabled solutions

L J Mnyaka
South African Medical Journal
Smart Cities and Technologies
article

Bridging the gap in rural and underserved areas through AI‐enabled solutions

L J Mnyaka
article en

Abstract

Healthcare disparities between urban and rural populations remain one of the most pressing challenges in global health. In underserved areas, patients face numerous obstacles, including a lack of healthcare infrastructure, long distances to medical facilities, shortages of skilled professionals, and limited access to real-time medical resources. These challenges result in poor health outcomes, higher mortality rates, and increased disease burden in rural communities. However, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative tool in addressing these healthcare gaps. By leveraging AI-driven solutions, we can create sustainable and scalable healthcare models that improve access, enhance the quality of care, and optimise resources for underserved populations. This article explores how AI is revolutionising rural healthcare, with a focus on the practical applications that can make a meaningful difference.

South African Medical JournalVol. 115(4b)
Education Labour Relations Council (ZA)
Openalex Percentile: Top 83%
Smart Cities and Technologies
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