Health experts in Nigeria have expressed optimism that the digitalisation of the country’s health systems will play a crucial role in reducing maternal mortality rates, which remain among the highest globally.
In an interview in Abuja on Friday, an obstetrician, Dr Ifeoma Okonkwo highlighted the impact of digital tools.
Okonkwo emphasised that early identification of high-risk pregnancies through digital platforms enabled timely interventions, thereby preventing complications that often lead to maternal deaths.
She highlighted several challenges that could hinder the full impact of digitalisation on maternal health.
According to her, poor internet connectivity, especially in rural areas, and limited access to digital devices are major barriers.
“A report by the National Bureau of Statistics revealed that only 35 per cent of primary healthcare centres are equipped with the infrastructure necessary for digital health solutions.
“In addition, healthcare workers in some regions lack adequate training to effectively use these technologies,” she noted.
Also, a community health worker, Mrs Aishatu Ishaka pointed out the issue of trust.
“Many women in rural communities prefer traditional birth attendants and are sceptical about relying on digital platforms for their healthcare needs,” Ishaka said.
She explained the need for a comprehensive approach to maximise the benefits of digital health.
“This includes government investments in infrastructure, training programmes for healthcare workers, and public education campaigns to build trust in digital tools,” she said.
She stressed the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, and local communities to ensure that digital health solutions were accessible and effective for all Nigerian women.
She added that policies must also address data privacy and security concerns, ensuring that patient information was protected as digital systems become more integrated into healthcare delivery.
As Nigeria works towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), experts said that the digitalisation of health systems presents an opportunity to improve maternal health outcomes significantly.
Others who spoke believe that while challenges remain, the integration of technology into healthcare delivery was already showing positive results.
They posit that though digital tools alone would not solve the maternal health crisis, they are an essential part of the solution.
Combining technology with community engagement and strong healthcare systems, according to them, can help to drastically reduce maternal mortality in Nigeria.
For many expectant mothers across the country, the hope is that these technological advancements will translate into safer pregnancies and healthier outcomes for both mothers and their babies.
NAN
