The Role of Technology in Enhancing Public Health Initiative: Utilization of Technological Advancements, Such as Telemedicine or Health Apps, in Improving Healthcare Accessibility and Outcomes

Obi Kamsochukwu Ego
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Obi Kamsochukwu Ego: N/A

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2024, vol. 8, issue 6, 1938-1946

Abstract: Introduction: The study explores the use of technology, specifically telemedicine and health apps, in improving public health initiatives in Nigeria. It focuses on their role in delivering quality healthcare services, highlighting the challenges and ways to overcome them to enhance healthcare accessibility and outcomes. Method: A descriptive survey design was used. The population of this study comprised all healthcare professionals (doctors and nurses) in the 2160 health centres in Anambra State. The sample size consisted of 500 healthcare providers using the multi-stage sampling technique. A structured questionnaire, the “Role of Technology in Enhancing Public Health Initiative Questionnaire†(RTEPHIQ), was developed and validated. The Cronbach Alpha Method was used to determine internal reliability, with coefficient values of 0.77, 0.82, and 0.75 for clusters I, II, and II respectively. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data and determine homogeneity or heterogeneity. Findings: Healthcare professionals in Nigeria agreed that telemedicine and mobile apps such as Babylon Health, Ada Health, Safe Mother, and Pocket Doctor are essential for providing quality healthcare services. However, challenges like inadequate internet infrastructure, limited smartphone availability, and high data costs hinder access to these technologies. It was found that healthcare professionals agreed on the need for improved infrastructure and data availability to enhance public health initiatives in Nigeria. Recommendations: The Nigerian Government and healthcare institutions should invest in robust telemedicine infrastructure, including high-speed internet connectivity and secure platforms, to ensure widespread access to telemedicine services, especially in remote or underserved areas.

Date: 2024
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