The Impact of a Continuum of Care on Social Determinants of Health and Health Disparities: An IEEE Perspective

In this article, the authors explore the transformative potential of digital health technologies to advance a Continuum of Care (CoC) model aimed at improving health outcomes and reducing disparities. Drawing on an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) perspective, it highlights how standards-based innovations—such as c (AI)-driven telemedicine, Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled remote monitoring, and mobile health—can deliver personalized, timely, and accessible care across diverse populations. Through real-world examples, including mobile clinics and population health platforms, the article illustrates successful implementations that address health inequities. In addition, the authors discuss the technical, economic, and governance challenges that clinicians face in integrating these solutions into routine care. Central to this work is the role of IEEE standards in ensuring equitable access, data interoperability, and built-in accessibility for all users. The paper advocates for a transdisciplinary and inclusive approach, empowering clinicians and technologists to collaborate in creating patient-centered systems that span the entire care journey—from prevention to treatment to recovery—regardless of setting or socioeconomic status.