15-2
Unfortunately, some of the technologies commonly introduced by health
programs turn out to be less appropriate than they seem. In this chapter, we will
look at the strengths and weaknesses of some of the advice, methods, and things
that are often assumed to be appropriate.
Chapter 16, which follows, also deals with appropriate technology. In it, we will
look at some basic tools and pieces of equipment that health workers can make
themselves.
HOW APPROPRIATE IS A SPECIFIC TECHNOLOGY?
To determine whether a certain
thing or method is appropriate for
your area, you can ask yourself the
following questions:
• Is it acceptable to the local
people?
• Do they (or will they) use it
effectively?
• Will it help to improve the
well-being of those in greatest
need?
• Is it low-cost and efficient?
Photo from Peru by Douglas Botting, from Questioning
Development by Glyn Roberts.
• Does it make full use of local
resources, traditions, and abilities?
• Does it take into consideration any local factors such as geography, climate,
and traditions, that may affect its usefulness?
• Does it keep a natural balance with the environment?
• Is it something that local people can easily understand, afford, and repair by
themselves?
• To what extent were local people involved or consulted in its planning, design,
selection, or adaptation?
• Does it provide more local employment? Or does it take jobs away?
• Does it build people’s confidence to find their own answers and make their
own decisions?
• Will it help close the gap between the rich and the poor? Or widen it?
• Does it help the weak to gain greater control and become more self-reliant?