As technology continues to revolutionize the healthcare industry, experts have called for the accurate usage of data and digitalization to improve healthcare services in Nigeria.
They made this at the event held in celebration of Avon HMO’s 10th Anniversary in Lagos.
According to Avon HMO’s pioneer Chief Executive Officer and Healthcare Sector Head of Heirs Holdings, Adesimbo Bello-Ukiri in her welcome address, she said it has now become important to understand how healthcare will continue to evolve and the role technology will play.
In her words, she stated that “to reveal patterns, problems and evidence for use by policy-makers, public and private, we need to make significant progress on the use of data and data analytics and digitization in the healthcare sector.
“Avon HMO has carved a conspicuous niche with its unique value proposition and client-centred approach, distinguishing itself within the health insurance ecosystem. This significant milestone is a testament to the resilience of the organization as well as its vibrant and committed leadership.” – DG/CEO of, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Prof. Mohammed Nasir Sambo said in his keynote address while speaking passionately about Nigeria’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Journey.
During his address, Prof. Sambo emphasized the importance of enabling legislation, fiscal policies, and financial perspectives in achieving UHC. He also highlighted the challenges that still exist on this journey and stressed the significance of including the poor and vulnerable segments of the population in our pursuit of universal healthcare.
Speaking further, the panelists unanimously agreed on the transformative power of data and digitalization in accelerating universal health coverage in Nigeria. They highlighted its crucial role in various aspects of healthcare, including care management, medical records, and improving access.
Addressing issues on the” The role of Data and Digitalization in accelerating our country’s progress on Universal Health Coverage” the Medical Director from Federal Medical Hospital, FMC, Yaba, Dr. Adedamola Dada emphasized the importance of adapting technology to aggregate data for supporting management and planning in every clinic or hospital.
He believes that initialization can address issues like missing case notes which often lead to delays, frustration, identity management challenges, information management and quality of care.
While the Assistant Vice President, New Markets and Innovation, HCA Healthcare UK, Annabelle Neame stressed the importance of data collection and data integrity when implementing digitalization, she emphasized the data needs to be of high quality, accurate, reliable and comprehensible to avoid being misled by false information.
Also, the Medical Director and Acting CEO of Avon Medical Practice, Dr Akinbiyi Oke addressed the need for Nigerian healthcare professionals to incorporate data science and analytics into their curriculum. He believes acquiring these skills is essential to thrive in the evolving healthcare landscape.
Expressing his views, Damilola Aloba, Ernst & Young Partner, Strategy and Transactions stated that Nigeria needs to develop a comprehensive digital health strategy that includes telemedicine and remote care driven by technology. He also makes a case for standardization of care quality and access to healthcare for people living in rural areas.
Dr Sola Pitan – Medical Director, Orile Agege General Hospital said data usage in the healthcare sector is the new gold. He stressed that data and digitalization simplify patient’s journeys, enhance access to medical records and reduce turnaround time for hospitals, clinics and other healthcare facilities.
