Expert proposes full digitalization of Nigeria’s healthcare system

An expert in a digital healthcare system and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hopewell Solutions Services, Dr Hughes Dimka, on Wednesday, proposed full digitalization of Nigeria’s healthcare system to tackle healthcare challenges across the country.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hopewell Solutions Services, made this known in Abuja while briefing journalists, he highlighted telemedicine as a key solution to bridging the healthcare gap by making medical consultations more accessible and reducing the strain on physical health facilities.

He emphasised that improved internet connectivity in rural communities is a game-changer for telemedicine, enabling more Nigerians to access quality healthcare services from their mobile devices.

He noted the Carelinks App is designed to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers by offering remote medical consultations, prescription management, and real-time health monitoring in a seamless and user-friendly manner.

He said: “I know everybody always talks about the challenge of getting patients into rural areas, but one thing I have noticed is that the government has steadily increased internet access even in these regions.

“In several rural areas, internet access is available, and more people are transitioning from old single-line phones to Android devices. This shift creates an opportunity for telemedicine to thrive, ensuring that even those in remote locations can consult with healthcare professionals.”

He also noted that Carelinks is currently a private-sector initiative, but Hopewell Solutions Services is open to future collaborations to strengthen the platform.

Dimka added, “Carelinks is designed to break barriers in healthcare access. Many Nigerians, especially in rural areas, face difficulties in reaching medical facilities. With this platform, they can consult with qualified doctors from their mobile devices, ensuring timely and efficient medical care.

“Many rural areas now have steady internet access, and more people are transitioning from basic phones to smartphones. This shift makes telemedicine an effective tool for expanding healthcare access.”

He also noted that to maintain high medical standards and data security, Hopewell Solutions has partnered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to verify all healthcare professionals on the platform.

He also assured users of strict data privacy measures, emphasizing that patients’ medical records remain confidential, with only the patient and their doctor having access to uploaded lab results.

Dimka reaffirmed Hopewell Solutions Services’ commitment to digital healthcare innovation, promising continuous improvements and expansions to meet evolving patient needs.