Nigeria's Health Experts Push for Digital Data Transformation

Health experts in Nigeria are calling for a transformation in the country's healthcare data culture, advocating for a shift from small pilot programs to large-scale digital health solutions. Dr. Jerome Mafeni, a technical advisor at the Network for Health Equity Development (NHED), stated that this shift requires a complete overhaul of workplace habits rather than merely introducing new software.

He emphasized the importance of implementing large-scale programs instead of concentrating on small pilot funding. Mafeni pointed out that the current data collection methods are largely manual and paper-based, leading to significant delays in data translation and decision-making.

Paul Bhuhi, Managing Director of Vantage Health Technology, expressed concern over the loss of resources due to abandoned pilot programs and highlighted Nigeria's potential for innovation in technology. He noted that Nigeria has attempted innovative solutions multiple times in the past year, indicating readiness for technological advancements in healthcare.