NOA and Mobihealth Launch Telehealth Initiative in Nigeria

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) and Mobihealth International have partnered to launch a national initiative aimed at improving healthcare access in Nigeria, particularly for those in rural and underserved communities. Announced in Abuja, the collaboration seeks to create an integrated healthcare pathway that includes community mobilization, health education, screening, teleconsultation, diagnosis, treatment, referral, and follow-up care.

The proposed Hybrid Community Telehealth Access Model will allow Nigerians to access healthcare through NOA offices, primary healthcare centres, community pharmacies, schools, and mobile phones. This initiative addresses challenges such as distance, healthcare professional shortages, and high travel costs.

The implementation will occur in phases, with the goal of nationwide scalability to support universal health coverage. NOA will utilize its grassroots presence for health education, while Mobihealth will provide the necessary technology and telemedicine infrastructure.

Dr. Ayoola Abiodun Olufemi, Director of Health and Social Care at NOA, emphasized the partnership's potential to significantly enhance healthcare access, particularly in underserved areas.