Poor data management remains a critical challenge within Nigeria’s healthcare sector, impeding the efficiency of service delivery. Public hospitals often contend with underfunding, inadequate record-keeping, and administrative inefficiencies, all of which can negatively affect patient care.
Despite technological advances, many hospitals still rely on manual, paper-based records. This outdated approach not only slows down processes but also increases the risk of incomplete, lost, or inaccurate medical histories. These inefficiencies often result in misdiagnoses, prescription errors, and challenges in tracking patient progress.
However, a growing number of public and private stakeholders are now exploring technology-driven solutions to tackle the systemic issues bedevilling Nigeria’s healthcare sector and transforming service delivery.
In response to this challenge, Interswitch, one of Africa’s leading digital payment and commerce companies, has introduced its Electronic Medical Records (EMR) solution, eClinic. Known primarily for its digital payments infrastructure across Africa, Interswitch has recently expanded its innovative footprint into the health-tech space.
The recent implementation of this system in Enugu marks an effort to digitise hospital operations nationwide. The aim is to enhance service delivery and facilitate real-time access to patient data, potentially improving the overall efficiency of the healthcare system.
Interswitch recently unveiled its Electronic Medical Records (EMR) solution, eClinic, at a launch event held at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu. The solution is designed to tackle long-standing inefficiencies in healthcare data management by enabling electronic billing, antenatal care management, immunisation tracking, and other clinical services.
The deployment in Enugu marks the fourth rollout of the eClinic platform in federal health institutions, following earlier implementations in Osun, Ogun, and Edo States.
A vision for digital healthcare transformation
The platform was officially commissioned by Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of State for Health, who described the initiative as a significant step toward transitioning from analogue systems to a more integrated, digital healthcare administration framework.
Dr. Salako emphasised that the deployment aligns with the Ministry of Health’s broader vision of modernising healthcare services and building a healthier Nigeria.
He also reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to forging meaningful collaborations with the private sector to deliver a measurable impact for Nigerians.
According to Salako, digital systems like Interswitch’s eClinic are enabling federal hospitals to deliver more accurate, efficient, and patient-focused care.
“The platform streamlines administrative processes, improves record-keeping, and provides real-time access to patient information, empowering healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and offer faster, more coordinated care.
“Ultimately, this enhances the overall quality of service. For patients, the impact is significantly reduced wait times, fewer medical errors, and a more seamless and satisfactory healthcare experience.”
Interswitch’s commitment to strategic partnerships
Also, speaking at the event, Babatunde Fadeyi, Vice President, Health Ecosystem (Public Sector) at Interswitch Group, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to innovation and strategic partnerships.
He noted that Interswitch’s collaboration with key stakeholders, including government institutions, underscores its dedication to driving digital transformation across critical sectors such as healthcare.
“With eClinic, our EMR solution, we are empowering healthcare professionals to work more efficiently and deliver improved outcomes for patients across the country,” he said.
Nigeria’s healthcare sector faces significant hurdles, including a low doctor-to-patient ratio and high out-of-pocket expenses for its over 200 million citizens.
World Health Organisation data from 2023 indicates approximately 0.4 doctors per 1,000 people, far below the recommended 2.5.
World Bank figures also reveal that over 70 percent of healthcare costs are directly borne by individuals, creating a substantial barrier to access.
Customised EMR solutions for Nigerian healthcare institutions
Designed with the realities of Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure in mind, eClinic operates in both online and offline modes to ensure continuous uptime and uninterrupted service delivery.
Each deployment is customised to meet the specific needs of the host institution, with feedback from frontline healthcare workers feeding into ongoing improvements through user interface testing and training initiatives.
The deployment of Interswitch’s EMR solution in Enugu builds on earlier collaborations between Interswitch and government agencies aimed at improving digital infrastructure in healthcare. Notably, Interswitch partnered with the Lagos State government to roll out the Lagos Smart Health Information Platform (Lagos SHIP), a system designed to unify patient records across both public and private hospitals.
Lagos SHIP supports secure, interoperable data sharing, facilitates digital payments, and integrates emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). These initiatives, developed by Interswitch’s health-tech subsidiary, eClat, reflect a consistent commitment to applying technology to simplify service delivery, enhance system transparency, and improve patient outcomes.
Towards a data-driven, efficient healthcare system
As Interswitch’s EMR solution takes root in Enugu and other states explore digital health transformation, the broader movement toward a more data-driven, efficient healthcare system is gaining momentum. To sustain this progress, strategic collaboration and innovation tailored to local needs will be crucial.
With ongoing investment in technology and a growing ecosystem of partners, Nigeria’s healthcare sector is steadily progressing toward a future where quality care is not just a privilege, but a standard supported by the necessary systems and infrastructure.
