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Integrating digital health technologies into the healthcare system: Challenges and opportunities in Nigeria

Author

Listed:
  • Adaeze E Egwudo
  • Ayodapo O Jegede
  • Tolulope A Oyeniyi
  • Nkolika J Ezekwelu
  • Samirah N Abdu-Aguye
  • Azuka P Okwuraiwe
  • Chizaram A Onyeaghala
  • Theresa O Ozoude
  • Muritala O Suleiman
  • Grace O Aziken
  • Oluchukwu P Okeke
  • Olunike R Abodunrin
  • George U Eleje
  • Folahanmi T Akinsolu
  • Olajide O Sobande

Abstract

Integrating digital health technologies (DHTs) in Nigeria’s healthcare system holds promise, yet the opportunities, challenges, and strategies influencing their success remain insufficiently explored. This scoping review aimed to map these factors, focusing on healthcare settings in Nigeria. A comprehensive search of databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL) and Google Scholar identified publications on DHT use in Nigeria from July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2024. A total of 31 observational and experimental studies were included involving healthcare workers, patients, caregivers, or other stakeholders impacted by DHT integration. Key findings revealed that DHTs enhanced treatment adherence, healthcare utilization, and community engagement while expanding technology infrastructure for scaling interventions. Notable opportunities included support and training and improved data quality. However, challenges such as operational and logistical barriers, inadequate network coverage, and cultural and gender sensitivity issues were prevalent. Strategies to address these challenges focused on continuous training for healthcare workers, community involvement to foster engagement, and data reporting and quality improvements. Despite their potential to transform healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved areas, successful integration of DHTs in Nigeria requires addressing infrastructure gaps, cultural norms, and operational challenges. Community engagement, capacity building for healthcare workers, and data-driven decision-making are critical to maximizing the impact of digital health interventions in Nigeria.Author summary: This scoping review provides a comprehensive overview of the published literature on integrating digital health technologies (DHTs) into healthcare settings in Nigeria. These tools, including mobile health applications and electronic health records, have demonstrated the potential to improve patient care, increase access to healthcare services, and enhance data collection for informed decision-making. Our findings indicate that DHTs have contributed to better health outcomes, improved healthcare delivery in underserved and remote areas, and strengthened training for healthcare workers. Despite these benefits, several challenges hinder effective implementation. These include poor internet connectivity, financial constraints, and the need for culturally sensitive program designs. Successful implementation strategies identified in the review involved engaging local leaders and healthcare workers through community involvement, providing tailored training, and improving infrastructure, such as enhancing internet access and ensuring the availability of digital devices. This review underscores the transformative potential of digital health tools in low-resource settings like Nigeria. It also highlights actionable strategies to overcome barriers, offering valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers working to optimize the use of digital health technologies in similar contexts.

Suggested Citation

  • Adaeze E Egwudo & Ayodapo O Jegede & Tolulope A Oyeniyi & Nkolika J Ezekwelu & Samirah N Abdu-Aguye & Azuka P Okwuraiwe & Chizaram A Onyeaghala & Theresa O Ozoude & Muritala O Suleiman & Grace O Azike, 2025. "Integrating digital health technologies into the healthcare system: Challenges and opportunities in Nigeria," PLOS Digital Health, Public Library of Science, vol. 4(7), pages 1-21, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pdig00:0000928
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000928
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