The Anambra State Government has intensified efforts to roll out telemedicine services across the state as part of its commitment to closing healthcare gaps and ensuring access to quality medical care in rural and underserved communities.
At a meeting with doctors and health workers held at the Data Centre of the Ministry of Health in Awka, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, outlined the state’s vision for integrating technology into healthcare delivery.
Telemedicine allows patients to consult doctors remotely via video calls, phone calls, or text messaging, thereby reducing the need for in-person hospital visits. The approach is expected to:
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Enhance healthcare access in hard-to-reach communities.
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Cut costs for patients while saving time.
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Provide lifesaving interventions during emergencies.
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Improve follow-up care for chronic illnesses.
Dr. Obidike emphasized that the government is committed to investing in digital infrastructure, stable internet connectivity, and technical support to ensure seamless operations. He further disclosed that doctors engaged in the programme would undergo regular training to keep pace with evolving telemedicine technologies.
The idea of telemedicine is not entirely new to Nigeria. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many states experimented with remote consultations to reduce the spread of infections and ease pressure on hospitals. However, widespread adoption was hindered by challenges such as poor internet connectivity, limited digital infrastructure, and lack of awareness.
Anambra’s initiative marks a more structured and sustainable attempt to institutionalize telemedicine within its public health system.
Telemedicine is increasingly seen as a global solution to healthcare inequality. Across Africa, it has been used to bridge gaps caused by doctor shortages, poor road infrastructure, and security challenges in rural areas.
For Anambra, the scheme positions the state as a pioneer in digital healthcare innovation, aligning with broader goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure).
By empowering citizens to access medical care through dedicated helplines, the government is not only improving health outcomes but also strengthening trust between communities and healthcare providers.
The expansion of telemedicine in Anambra represents a bold step toward a modern, inclusive, and resilient healthcare system. While challenges such as connectivity and user adoption remain, the government’s investment in digital infrastructure and training provides a solid foundation.
Ultimately, the success of the programme will be measured not only in statistics but in the everyday realities of residents—whether it is the villager in a remote community who gets timely medical advice, the patient who avoids needless travel, or the family whose emergency call saves a life.
For now, residents can reach doctors via the Telehub Centre through the following lines:
📞 +234 704 866 3726
📞 +234 704 019 9716
📞 +234 913 578 2822
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