Role of GIS technology during leprosy elimination efforts in Pohnpei.

This article summarizes Pohnpei State Department of Health Services' utilization of GIS technology and GPS mapping of leprosy cases during the leprosy elimination efforts. Maps generated from ArcMap provided 'hotspots' or areas of high case density, thus providing for more focused screening. Introducing GIS technology in the elimination efforts has led to a diminution of the target number of screened clients per year, thus minimizing resource utilization. GPS technology as a health planning tool in small Pacific island countries can synergize local screening efforts and improve overall public health planning and implementation, in a way that is cost-effective and resource friendly.