In a transformative step for healthcare in Enugu State, Governor Peter Mbah has approved the digitalization of all primary and secondary healthcare facilities across the state.
This initiative aims to modernize healthcare delivery, improve patient experience, and enhance data management for effective healthcare planning and budgeting.
The announcement was made by Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ESPHCDA), during a facility tour with the World Health Organization (WHO) to newly constructed Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) in Ogbaku, Awgu, and Emene in Enugu East Council Areas.
Dr. Ani-Osheku emphasized that the digitalization process would capture patient data electronically, streamlining operations and facilitating better healthcare outcomes. “Digitalization is the biggest conversation in the healthcare sector right now,” she said, adding that accurate data would enable improved budgeting and long-term healthcare planning.
Governor Mbah’s administration has embarked on the construction of 260 Type 2 healthcare facilities across the state’s political wards, bringing healthcare closer to rural communities. The project is divided into two phases, with 31 PHCs completed in the first phase, and an additional 200 Type 2 PHCs already under construction.
Each healthcare facility meets WHO standards, featuring eleven spaces, including consulting rooms, a maternity unit, wards for male and female patients, and essential amenities. The centers are also connected to reliable power sources, including solar energy and boreholes.
Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, WHO’s South-East Zonal Coordinator, praised Governor Mbah for his efforts to revitalize primary healthcare in Enugu. He noted that investments in primary healthcare are crucial for achieving health security and universal healthcare coverage, which in turn drive economic growth through a healthier workforce and increased productivity.
The WHO has pledged continued technical support for the state’s healthcare development under the leadership of Dr. Walter Kazadi, WHO-Nigeria Country Representative.
Steve Oruruo, the contractor responsible for the Ogbaku healthcare center, commended the local community for their support during the construction, noting that their cooperation helped ensure the timely completion of the project.
Local leaders and residents have lauded Governor Mbah for the healthcare improvements, with Mr. David Ugwu, Chairman of the Ward Development Committee in Emene, highlighting how the new facility has eliminated the need for women to travel long distances to access basic healthcare services.
Peoplesmind
