HCI's Knowledge- and Information-Sharing Platform

The Issue
Much of the literature and evidence-informed information related to HIV, TB and drug treatment is published in English. While many multi-lateral agencies produce resources in other languages such as Russian, French, Spanish, and Arabic, most peer-reviewed journals are only accessible to those who possess skills in English sufficient to absorb the key points. Thus, important international developments designed to respond to these epidemics are often missed due to language barriers. Likewise, professional peers working in similar contexts in various regions of the world are often unable to share experiences and/or knowledge from their professional settings due to language and/or geographic barriers

HCI’s Solution
In an attempt to mitigate these barriers as much as possible, as well as to strengthen healthcare systems in resource-limited settings, HCI combines traditional in-country training seminars aimed at capacity building with the innovative use of information and communications technology and eHealth solutions. A centrepiece to this approach is HCI’s Knowledge- and Information-Sharing Platform (KISP).

HCI’s KISP is an innovative web-based system that allows peer-to-peer exchanges to take place in multiple languages. Through a user-friendly, simple interface, healthcare professionals in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan can gain valuable information to assist in their daily work.

Using KISP
KISP users can post questions in their own language (for now, Russian and/or English) on topics related to HIV, TB and drug demand and harm reduction. They then receive answers and/or feedback from internationally recognised experts who have volunteered their time and expertise. All interactions take place within the system, and are translated into English and/or Russian depending upon the language of the original post.

HCI’s KISP can be found at http://www.myhci.org. Anyone wishing to simply browse the platform is free to do so without registering or logging in. This allows easy access to information that is open to anyone. However, registration is required before questions can be posted to the system. Registration is simple, easy and free-of-charge.

If you are interested in volunteering your time and are qualified to provide answers to questions on topics related to HIV, TB, infectious diseases and/or drug demand and/or harm reduction, please send your CV and a brief cover letter to contribute@myhci.org.