A deep and wide body of knowledge on public health and violence prevention exists. Neither policymakers nor the general public have complete access to this knowledge. This lack of access to information is shared between wealthier and poorer countries of the world. How could traditional tools of dissemination be used more effectively? How could newer tools such as the internet and cellular technologies be introduced into this field? How can we better translate what works in one setting to another?

The Institute of Medicine will convene a 2-day workshop to examine the use of technology for dissemination and implementation of knowledge and practices pertaining to violence prevention. Speakers will explore the role of traditional media in preventing violence, and the potential applications for new media in this same endeavor. In particular, the workshop will illuminate the use of emerging technologies in low- and middle-income countries, such as mobile communications. It will also highlight best practices from other arenas of global health where use of such technologies show potential for success. Some consideration will also be given regarding the content being disseminated and how to incorporate cultural context.

The workshop will include invited presentations and panel discussions. Experts will be drawn from the public and private sectors as well as from academic organizations to allow for multi-lateral, evidence-based discussions. An individually authored summary of the workshop will be prepared by a designated rapporteur, in accordance with institutional policy and procedures.