HEALTH TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATION SYNERGY FOR COMMUNITY WELL-BEING IN TIMOR LESTE

Abstract

This international community service program aims to improve community welfare through the synergy of health technology and effective communication strategies in Timor Leste. The program was motivated by limited access to health services, low health literacy, and contextual challenges in health communication within the community. The implementation methods included health education, training on the use of simple health technologies, community mentoring, and strengthening culturally based health communication. The activities were conducted collaboratively by involving local health workers, community members, students, and lecturers as part of international cooperation. The results indicate an improvement in community understanding of basic health pravtices, more optimal use of health technology, and increased active participation in maintaining personal and community health. In addition, the establishment of international collaboration networks supported the exchange of knowledge and best practices. The evaluation shows that an integrative and participatory approach was effective in supporting program sustainability, despite challenges related to infrastructure limitations and digital literacy. Overall, this community service program contributes significantly to enhancing health literacy and community welfare and can serve as a model for international community engagement based on health technology and communication.