Why Tech Must Lead in Health Access

The Intersection of Healthcare and Information Technology

Healthcare and information technology are often seen as two distinct domains. One focuses on medical professionals, patients, and treatment, while the other revolves around servers, data, and networks. However, in today’s rapidly evolving world, these two fields are increasingly intertwined. Technology is no longer a luxury in healthcare—it has become the backbone of modern medical systems. From scheduling appointments to storing patient records and delivering test results, digital tools are essential for efficient and effective care.

In Nigeria, this integration remains incomplete. Patients still face long waits for medical records that could be accessed instantly through digital means. Hospitals often rely on physical files stored in cabinets, leading to situations where doctors lack critical information due to misplaced or incomplete records. Despite having one of Africa’s fastest-growing technology sectors, with millions using mobile apps for banking, communication, and shopping, the adoption of IT in healthcare is still limited.

The challenges are evident in everyday experiences. A man in Kano managing hypertension may visit multiple facilities, each with its own set of records that are not connected. A mother in Port Harcourt might have to repeat lab tests because previous results are unavailable. A student in Lagos may present a paper report that is questioned by employers or schools due to the lack of a reliable verification system. These issues are not about medicine but about the systems that support it—systems that fall under the domain of information technology.

Globally, the connection between IT and health is well-established. In the United States, electronic health records are standard practice. In India, mobile platforms allow patients to access prescriptions and test results instantly. In Rwanda and Kenya, technology is used to notify patients of results or support community health workers in the field. These examples demonstrate that when IT is integrated into healthcare, patients benefit, providers save time, and governments gain valuable data for planning and decision-making.

Nigeria has started experimenting with electronic systems in some hospitals and private clinics, but the implementation remains inconsistent. Many systems operate in isolation, with records not following patients across different facilities. Labs and hospitals often function separately, and patients rarely have access beyond the paper they receive. This leads to duplication, waste, and frustration among users.

The question is not whether technology belongs in healthcare—it clearly does—but how Nigeria will bridge the gap. The banking sector offers a useful lesson. Two decades ago, banks relied on paper ledgers and slow processes. Today, customers can check balances and transfer money in seconds using their phones. This transformation did not happen overnight; it was driven by the central role of IT in financial services. Healthcare needs the same level of urgency and investment.

Bridging IT and health is not just about efficiency—it is also about trust. In a paper-based system, records can be forged or altered, leading to doubts about their authenticity. Technology can strengthen credibility by ensuring that records are secure, verifiable, and consistent. Patients deserve confidence that their health information will not be lost or questioned when needed for school, work, or travel.

Of course, challenges remain. Issues such as unreliable power supply, poor connectivity, and high infrastructure costs must be addressed. However, these are not unique to healthcare. Nigeria has already overcome similar barriers in other sectors, such as mobile banking and e-commerce. Where there is demand and commitment, solutions emerge.

IT professionals have a crucial role to play. Doctors and nurses are experts in treatment, but technology requires its own expertise. The bridge between these two worlds must be built through collaboration: health professionals defining needs, and IT experts designing systems that meet those needs. Neither side can succeed alone.

Patients also have a role in driving change. Just as Nigerians embraced mobile banking and messaging apps, they will adapt to new ways of accessing health information. In fact, demand often accelerates change more than policy. When people expect faster, safer, and more reliable access, providers will be compelled to respond.

Nigeria has shown that transformation is possible. The introduction of the Bank Verification Number revolutionized financial services, and the rise of mobile telephony opened communication to millions. A similar transformation is achievable in healthcare if IT is placed at the center rather than the periphery.

Healthcare is not just about hospitals and treatments—it is about accurate, timely, and accessible information. Without technology, information is lost, delayed, or doubted. With technology, it becomes the foundation for better treatment, better planning, and better outcomes.

Bridging IT and healthcare is no longer a choice—it is a necessity. The health of Nigerians depends on it.