By Chioma Obinna

In recent times, science -based technology and deductive reasoning have been proven to form the foundation for the solution to many clinical problems. Also, spectacular advances in biochemistry, cell biology and genomics coupled with newly developed imaging techniques allow access to the innermost parts of the cell.

The knowledge gleaned according to scientists, from these have actually improved and would undoubtedly improve further understanding of complex disease processes.

In recognition of all these, the Lagos State Government last week announced its intentions to invest in healthcare technology.

Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris who hinted this while briefing the journalists in Lagos on the State’s planned Public Lecture tagged; “The Future of Medicine: Exploring the Impact of Technological Advancement on Health Policy” billed to hold tomorrow, explained that effective health planning needs to anticipate future healthcare technology and take into account such implications.

He further stated that the inclusion of advancements in healthcare in policy – making should contribute to policies that eventually lead to desired outcomes, including health gains.

“For policy makers committed to improving national health systems, involvement of these areas in the policy formulation, process is essential to ensure that health policy, when implemented will meet the interests of the health sector in the years to come.”

To achieve this, the State is holding a public lecture that would bring together key stakeholders in the health sector to better understand the role of advanced technology in healthcare and also identity solutions toward addressing issues identified in a coordinated and comprehensive manner.

The Commissioner said the lecture has been packaged to be in three parts, a basic lecture on Biotechnology followed by a presentation on the impact of these new sciences on policy and planning for healthcare delivery in Nigeria and to be rounded up with a panel discussion on the subject.

Not less than 250 healthcare professionals from both private and public sectors, top health officials in the Ministry, members of  the committee on health from the State House of Assembly, top officials of health service commission, chairmen of hospitals governing boards, medical directors of hospitals senor health personnel amongst other are expected at the public lecture.