In a pioneering move to improve the accessibility and efficiency of health services in Enugu State, Governor Peter Mbah has approved the digitalization of all primary and secondary health facilities across the state. The revolutionary initiative is aimed at modernizing healthcare delivery, improving patient experience, as well as optimizing data management for effective planning and budgeting in the health sector.
The announcement was made by Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ESPHCDA), during a tour of the facilities with the World Health Organization (WHO) at the newly constructed Type 2 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Ogbaku, Awgu and Emene in Enugu East Council Areas.
Dr Ani-Osheku noted that the digitalization process would allow for electronic collection of patient data, streamline operations and promote better health outcomes. “Digitization is the most talked about topic in the health sector at the moment,” she said, adding that accurate data would help improve budgeting and long-term planning for healthcare.
Governor Mbah’s administration has initiated the construction of 260 Type 2 health facilities across the political constituencies of the state, bringing health services closer to rural communities. The project is divided into two phases, with 31 PHCs completed in the first phase, and another 200 Type 2 PHCs under construction.
Each health facility meets WHO standards, comprising eleven spaces, including consultation rooms, a maternity unit, wards for male and female patients, as well as essential equipment. The centres are also connected to reliable energy sources, such as solar power and boreholes.
Dr Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, WHO Regional Coordinator for South East, commended Governor Mbah’s efforts to revitalize primary health care in Enugu. He stressed that investments in primary health care are crucial to ensuring health security and universal health coverage, which in turn promotes economic growth through a healthier workforce and increased productivity.
WHO has pledged continued technical support for the development of the state’s health care system under the leadership of Dr Walter Kazadi, WHO Representative in Nigeria.
Steve Oruruo, the contractor in charge of the Ogbaku Health Centre, commended the local community for their support during construction, noting that their collaboration helped ensure the timely completion of the project.
Local leaders and residents have hailed Governor Mbah for the improvements in the health sector, with Mr. David Ugwu, Chairman of the Emene Ward Development Committee, highlighting how the new facility has eliminated the need for women to travel long distances to access basic health services.
This initiative to digitalize health services in Enugu State represents a significant step forward towards more effective, efficient and inclusive healthcare delivery for the entire population. The commitment of Governor Mbah and the local authorities to improve access to primary health care is a testament to a progressive and community-oriented vision.