The transfer of inappropriate health technology to third world countries.

Abstract

The transfer of inappropriate health technology to less developed countries constitutes a large obstacle to the improvement of health in the Third World. Technology transferred through three major mechanisms is examined: Multinational Corporations, Foreign Aid and Education. The technology is evaluated based on a criteria of appropriateness determined from the needs of less developed countries. The criteria of appropriateness incorporated morbidity and mortality, economic, sociocultural, and political factors. Recommendations to redress the inappropriate transfer of technology are set forth in the conclusions.