The Open Source software movement started as a means to offer choice and at a price-point advantage, and since the OSS movement has evolved as a way of enterprise with some interesting business models. As software takes to the clouds, the provisioning of services is also evolving.
The Economist summarises in this well documented article the hype and trend of medical tourism that is very real and getting even more real. Is this is good thing for the country of the tourist? Is it a good thing for the country offering the service. As the economics of healthcare weigh in, the trend is here to stay. But can this be a win-win? I believe so (even before reading the article), but it requires more than my belief or other like-minded individuals. The political will and wisdom will be needed to see beyond the pure economic benefits and giving in to trade unions. Will the medical professionals see this as a chance to truly be "doctors without boundaries"? Technology has a significant role to play.
