OpenStreetMap and Digital Health: Enhancing Patient Care and Healthcare Delivery

Abstract

This chapter explored the applications of OpenStreetMap (OSM) in digital health, highlighting improvements in patient navigation, resource mapping, and epidemic response. Integrating OSM data into digital health platforms enhances patient journeys by providing real-time navigation and access to public transportation options. It can help in locating urgent care centers and mapping specialist providers, chronic condition support services, and mental health resources. During epidemics, OSM supports disease surveillance and vaccination site mapping. OSM can also help to identify underserved areas to promote telehealth and incorporate social determinants of health for a holistic approach. Challenges such as data accuracy, consistency, and completeness can be addressed through community moderation, partnerships, and supplementary data sources. Ensuring data currency through real-time updates and user feedback mechanisms can further enhance the reliability of OSM-based digital health applications.