Global Health Equity Week Spotlight: Marianna Petrea-Imenokhoeva

In recognition of Global Health Equity Week 2023, HIMSS is celebrating women in nonprofit leadership who share a commitment to realizing the full health potential of every human, everywhere.

Explore what drives these leaders, learn about their organizations and consider championing their missions.

Learn more about Global Health Equity Week.

Marianna Petrea-Imenokhoeva, Health Tech Without Borders

Marianna Petrea-Imenokhoeva, founding member of Health Tech Without Borders, is a digital health expert with more than 25 years of experience in the tech industry.

Health Tech Without Borders is a global nonprofit organization aiming to mitigate healthcare crises by leveraging digital tools and technology to provide immediate access to health resources.

Tell us about your organization’s mission, its impact on advancing healthier communities and the people you serve.

When hit with a sudden humanitarian emergency, local communities can be abruptly cut off from basic healthcare. People find themselves disconnected from healthcare professionals, medical institutions, doctors and other life-saving services, while at the same time hospitals and clinics face a sudden influx of patients with highly specific and urgent needs.

Health Tech Without Borders is a global nonprofit organization aiming to mitigate such healthcare crises by leveraging digital tools and technology to provide immediate access to health resources. Health Tech Without Borders acts as an innovative hub that connects companies offering digital tools with experts in medical and psychological care.

Health Tech Without Borders focuses on supporting any person affected by humanitarian disasters while remaining non-sectarian and apolitical.

Since its foundation, HTWB, together with volunteers and partners, has provided more than 170,000 free telehealth consultations, 800 individual mental health support sessions, and education to 2,100+ clinicians, mental health professionals and medical students.

When did you come to realize that this work was your life’s assignment?

In Health Tech Without Borders, I'm surrounded by amazing individuals whose life's purpose is quite clear. I believe that the desire and intention to help people and communities affected by crises are natural needs. The need to repair, restore hope and share your energy, knowledge and experience with others forms the foundation of life's flow. I don't see this as something extraordinary; rather, it's an everyday need, much like breathing.

Are you looking for certain types of technology partnerships that can support your mission?

At Health Tech Without Borders, we explore different digital health domains and solutions. For us, the important requirement is the readiness for the fast deployment in disaster settings and ease of use for healthcare professionals and citizens. We are open to partnerships with global and local technological companies and providers that are committed to the long-term support of communities affected by humanitarian crises.

What are some ways HIMSS members and staff can get involved with your organization?  

We rely on volunteers and donations to support our work across the globe.  Please consider volunteering or donating on the Health Tech Without Borders website, or contact us at wehelp@htwb.org.

About Health Tech Without Borders

• Countries served: Ukraine, Turkey, Mexico, Pakistan, Philippines, India, US, Cameroon
• HTWB website
• HTWB on LinkedIn
• HTWB on X
• HTWB on Facebook
• HTWB on Instagram
• Leadership: Marianna Petrea-Imenokhoeva, founding member; Hicham Naim, founding member; Jarone Lee, MD, founding member; Bob Arnot, MD, chief innovation officer