ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT TRAINS HEALTH WORKERS ON TELEMEDICINE FOR ENHANCE HEALTHCARE DELIVERY
By Chukwudi Nwauba :
Anambra State Government has launched a comprehensive training program aimed at equipping health workers across the state with essential skills in telemedicine. This was disclosed at a 2 day training held in Awka for medical personnel aimed at enhancing their ability to offer remote healthcare services.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike said the initiative designed to bridge the gap in healthcare access is part of 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.
He further said, “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.The program included 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.
Dr. Obidike noted that all the necessary gadgets have been deployed to 326 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state with 47 Medical Doctors dedicated to the Telemedicine Centres in the 21 LGAs of the state.
He emphasised that Governor Soludo on assumption of office commissioned Telemedicine Hub in Awkuzu and promised to extend it across the state.
“As the program continues to roll out, Anambra State aims to lead 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,” he maintained.