Internet Connectivity Identified As Barrier To Digital Health Solutions By Innovators Innovators Have Identified Internet Connectivity As A Significant Obstacle To The Implementation Of Digital Health Solutions. The Lack Of Reliable And Affordable Internet Access Hinders Access To Healthcare Services And The Adoption Of Remote Patient Monitoring, Telemedicine, And Other Digital Health Technologies. This Connectivity Gap Disproportionately Affects Underserved Populations, Including Those In Rural And Low-Income Areas, Limiting Their Access To Quality Healthcare. Addressing This Barrier Will Be Crucial In Ensuring Equitable Access To Digital Health Solutions And Improving Healthcare Outcomes For All.

Oluchi Chibuzor

Medical innovators have identified the lack of Internet connectivity as a major obstacle to the implementation of innovative low-tech and digital health solutions in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. They argue that in order to leverage technology in health centers across the country, it is crucial to provide basic infrastructure such as electricity and Internet access.

This issue was highlighted during a recent health sector mixer event held in Lagos, themed “Data for Life: Pioneering the Future of Digital Health and Care in Nigeria Through Data”. The event brought together medical students, government health officials, and technological innovators.

Shina Arogundade, CEO of Techbeaver, emphasized that Internet connectivity remains a significant barrier to deploying digital health solutions in primary healthcare centers. He stressed the importance of establishing the necessary infrastructure to support health innovations that can enhance healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes.

Arogundade gave an example of the current paper-based system in laboratories, where records often get lost or misplaced, leading to inadequate care and preventive measures. He emphasized the need for centralized and reliable digital health records to ensure comprehensive and effective healthcare.

Dr. Luqmon Lawal, the Head of Global Expansion at Mayo Clinic, also highlighted the importance of basic infrastructure like electricity and Internet access in achieving a robust healthcare system. He explained that without reliable electricity, it is challenging to provide even basic healthcare services, let alone digital healthcare. Additionally, he emphasized the indispensability of internet access for electronic medical records and other digital healthcare initiatives. High-speed internet is crucial for storing, uploading, and sharing healthcare data efficiently.