The Anambra State Government has launched a comprehensive training program aimed at equipping health workers across the state with essential skills in telemedicine.
State Commissioner for Health; Dr. Afam Ben Obidike said the initiative is designed to bridge the gap in healthcare access, part of the government’s broader efforts to integrate technology into the healthcare sector.
According to him, Anambra is the first State in Nigeria that introduced Telemedicine in healthcare system.
“Immediately after Mr. Governor assumed into office, he personally commissioned this Telemedicine Hub in Awkuzu, during that period he promised to extend it across the state and now health workers have received training for the extension of this great initiative to Primary Healthcare Centres across the state.
The 2 days training held in Awka, participants were medical personnel, nurses and community health workers, with a focus on enhancing their ability to offer remote healthcare services.
“Participants have learned how to use telemedicine platforms to diagnose, treat and monitor patients from a distance, thus increasing access to healthcare in rural and underserved areas.
Speaking at the event via virtual, the Commissioner for Health, emphasized that the training is part of the state’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and making medical services more accessible to its citizens, especially those in remote regions.
“Telemedicine is a game-changer. It enables healthcare professionals to reach patients who otherwise would have to travel long distances to see a doctor. This will improve patient outcomes and make healthcare more affordable.
“This training is being facilitated in partnership with 24-Telemed firm that specialize in telehealth solutions, as well as medical experts from both local and international institutions.
The program includes hands-on sessions and real-life case studies, ensuring that participants are not only familiar with the technology but also with its practical application in patient care.
“Health workers are also taught to overcome challenges such as internet connectivity issues, patient data privacy concerns and the integration of telemedicine with traditional in-person consultations.”
He noted that Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who endorsed the initiative, expressed confidence that this training will revolutionize healthcare delivery in Anambra State.
“By embracing digital health solutions, we are not just improving the health system we are also empowering our health workers and creating a sustainable model of healthcare for the future,” he said.
As the program continues to roll out, Anambra State aims to be a leader in healthcare innovation in Nigeria, with telemedicine being an essential tool in addressing the growing demand for medical services amidst a shortage of healthcare infrastructure in some areas.
The initiative has received positive feedback from health workers, who have expressed excitement about the potential to provide better care to their patients through these new technological tools.
As telemedicine continues to gain traction globally, Anambra State is positioning itself as a key player in modernizing healthcare, ultimately bringing the benefits of medical technology to its diverse population.
Dr. Obidike informed the public that all the necessary gadgets has been deployed to 326 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state with 47 Medical Doctors dedicated to the Telemedicine Centres in all the 21 Local Government Areas of the State.
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