To enhance healthcare service delivery in Nigeria, digital public health expert Zaid Olanrewaju has called on the Federal Government to digitalize the country’s health sector. Speaking on Friday in Abuja, Olanrewaju emphasized the need for the creation of a national digital health blueprint, which would facilitate the integration of health information systems and healthcare providers across the country.
He explained that such a blueprint would serve as the foundation for developing health technology in Nigeria. It would allow for the digital integration of patient health records, healthcare providers’ information, and the development of digital health infrastructure. This approach, he stated, would establish a solid framework for adopting the “one health” approach, unlocking Nigeria’s healthcare value chain.
“The multitier digital health transformation will incorporate two programs aimed at integrating data and building an innovation ecosystem for Nigeria. This would include the creation of a national health database,” Olanrewaju said.
He further noted that the digital health blueprint would significantly support the government’s efforts to provide affordable and quality healthcare to Nigerians, with the potential to enroll nearly 50 million people into the national health insurance scheme.
“Digitalization of Nigeria’s health sector will enhance efficiency by 15%, increasing the sector’s value to US$18 billion. The blueprint would accelerate e-health efforts by implementing national solutions such as electronic health records and clinical workflow management systems. These systems would ensure evidence-based, patient-centered care, while securing data for national research and healthcare planning,” he added.
Olanrewaju’s recommendations highlight the potential for technology to transform Nigeria’s healthcare system, improving service delivery, efficiency, and access to quality care.
