The Impact of Digital Transformation on Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria: Challenges and Recommendations
The Impact of Digital Transformation on Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria: Challenges and Recommendations
Elechi Ubalaeze S¹, Elechi Kelechi W², Onyeugbo Erere G¹, Akujuobi Chinemerem D³, Nwoda Chioma S4
¹Department of Radiography and Radiological Sciences, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Nigeria Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
²Biology of Aging Discipline, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America.
³Department of Radiography and Radiological Sciences, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Uyo, Nigeria.
4Faculty Of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria.
Publication Information
Journal Title: International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI)
Author(s):Ubalaeze S, Elechi ;Kelechi W, Elechi ;Erere G, Onyeugbo ; Chinemerem D, Akujuobi ;Chioma S, Nwoda
Published On: 05/01/2025
Volume: 11
Issue: 15
First Page: 498
Last Page: 509
ISSN: 2321-2705
Cite this Article Ubalaeze S, Elechi ;Kelechi W, Elechi ;Erere G, Onyeugbo ; Chinemerem D, Akujuobi ;Chioma S, Nwoda; The Impact of Digital Transformation on Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria: Challenges and Recommendations, Volume 11 Issue 15, International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI), 498-509, Published on 05/01/2025, Available at https://rsisinternational.org/journals/ijrsi/articles/the-impact-of-digital-transformation-on-healthcare-delivery-in-nigeria-challenges-and-recommendations/
Abstract
Nigeria’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, workforce shortages, and a high disease burden. Digital health technologies offer promising solutions, but their implementation and impact remain limited and fragmented. This review examines the challenges of digital transformation in Nigerian healthcare and provides recommendations for overcoming these obstacles. While digital health initiatives have shown promise in improving access to care, enhancing health education, and streamlining healthcare delivery, significant challenges persist. These include infrastructure deficits, digital literacy gaps, financial constraints, regulatory issues, and concerns about data privacy and security. Rural and underserved areas face particularly acute challenges, risking the exacerbation of existing health inequalities. Overcoming the challenges of digital health transformation in Nigeria requires a multi-faceted approach. Recommendations include developing a comprehensive national digital health strategy, investing in infrastructure and digital literacy, creating a supportive regulatory environment, and fostering public-private partnerships. By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can harness the power of digital health to build a more robust, equitable, and effective healthcare system.
Keywords: digital health; telemedicine; electronic health records; mHealth; healthcare delivery; Nigeria; challenges; recommendations; health equity; policy
