Science and technology are integral aspects of our daily lives. Science refers to the study of the natural world through scientific methods, while technology is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes (Rao, 2018). The two disciplines are inseparable, as science informs predictions, which technology applies. This essay examines how science and technology contribute to enhancing healthcare in Africa.

Science and technology play a crucial role in healthcare. They offer new machines such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT), which detect hidden tumors by mapping them onto a computer screen while examining the brain and other parts of the body (Paul & Walton, 2006). Additionally, science and technology provide life-saving medication that shrinks tumors and kills small metastases, such as chemotherapy drugs (Velicer, 2004). Lastly, science and technology provide surgical interventions that are essential for treating diseases and injuries, significantly improving patients' chances of recovery (Alisha, 2021). These advancements have enabled people worldwide to access better healthcare, thus enhancing their quality of life.

Moreover, science and technology bring several benefits to healthcare. First, they reduce medical costs, making treatment more accessible and affordable, while also improving care quality (Paul & Walton, 2006). Second, they provide vaccinations that eliminate bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, which can be harmful to our health (Mackett & Williamson, 1995). Lastly, they offer screening tests, immunizations, and check-ups that enable people to know their health status and become more familiar with taking care of their health proactively (Velicer, 2004). Science and technology have made lives easier by reducing medical expenses. Patients with chronic conditions, such as asthma, are now more likely to receive the healthcare they need.

The advantages of implementing science and technology in healthcare continue to grow. First, start-ups worldwide have improved the way patients interact with their doctors by providing fast and seamless patient-doctor interaction, making appointments and speaking with receptionists seem outdated or unnecessary (Alisha, 2021). Second, the use of new machine learning accurately predicts outbreaks of infectious diseases across the globe (Rao, 2018). Lastly, digital prescriptions accelerate the prescription process, improving the quality of medication and ensuring the correct dosage is prescribed (Alisha, 2021). Science and technology are fundamental to enhancing healthcare: Patients save time and can communicate with doctors on prescription changes without visiting healthcare institutions physically.

In conclusion, science and technology are crucial in healthcare. The discovery or invention of medication and machines forms part of the significant advances that science and technology bring to healthcare. Medical costs have reduced, accessibility and affordability of treatment has increased, and medical care quality has improved. Science and technology have made healthcare interactions faster, more accurate, and convenient for patients worldwide.

References

Alisha, S. (2021). Ways healthcare science and technology benefits medicine. Dr. Bill Blog.

Mackett, M., & Williamson, J. D. (1995). Human Vaccines and Vaccination. UK: BIOS Scientific.

Paul, M. I., & Walton, T. R. (2006). Core Concepts in Health. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Rao, G. (2018). Contribution of science and technology to better healthcare. Biomedical Journal of Scientific and Technical Research.

Velicer, C. M. (2004). Antibiotics use in relation to the risks of breast cancer. Journal of the American Medical Association, 827-835.