Vol. 2 No. 1 (2026)
A Systematic Review of Digital Health Passports: Implications for Cross-Border Chronic Disease Management and Health Service Utilisation in the Southern African Development Community, 2021–2026
Abstract
This systematic review examines the potential of digital health passports (DHPs) to address the critical public health challenge of ensuring continuity of care for chronic disease patients amidst high cross-border mobility within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The primary objective was to synthesise available evidence on the impact of DHPs on patient access, data interoperability, and health outcomes across SADC member states. Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, African Journals Online, and regional databases was conducted for literature published from 2021 to 2023. Pre-defined inclusion criteria focused on empirical research, policy analyses, and implementation reports relevant to digital health tools and chronic disease management in the SADC region. The screening process, detailed in a PRISMA flow diagram, resulted in the inclusion of [number] studies. The synthesis indicates that DHPs could theoretically improve care continuity by enabling secure access to medical records. However, significant barriers were identified, including stark disparities in digital infrastructure between member states, concerns over data privacy and security, and a lack of standardised technical and legal frameworks. The review concludes that while DHPs offer a promising tool for regional health integration, their successful implementation in SADC is contingent upon collaborative governance, substantial investment in digital equity, and community-centred design that addresses local trust and literacy issues. These findings underscore the necessity for a coordinated, policy-driven approach to digital health solutions within the region.
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