By Bolanle Peter

A healthcare expert has called on the Federal Government to implement an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system to replace hardcopy patient records in hospitals across Nigeria.

According to Obiajuru Triumph Nwadiokwu, a United States Valedictorian, Researcher, and Healthcare Information Systems professional, leveraging technology to enhance patient care is crucial for a more efficient healthcare system.

Nwadiokwu emphasized that transitioning to EHR would significantly improve efficiency, streamline patient management, and modernize healthcare service delivery.

Nwadiokwu highlighted that a well-structured EHR system could enhance efficiency, ensure better healthcare outcomes, and address the limitations of paper-based records.

While the traditional system has long served its purpose, he stated that the benefits of transitioning to digital records far outweigh the challenges of implementation.

He said, “Many hospitals and clinics in Nigeria still rely on paper-based records, which present several challenges. Paper records are stored in physical files, making retrieval time-consuming, especially in emergency situations. Healthcare providers may struggle to get a patient’s full medical history when needed. Physical records are also vulnerable to loss, theft, fire, and environmental factors such as humidity, which can affect long-term storage. Patients often receive treatment from different hospitals, and without a centralized system, sharing medical records between facilities is challenging. This can lead to repeated tests and delays in treatment. Hospitals require significant space to store patient records, and over time, organizing and retrieving documents becomes cumbersome. Without quick access to medical history, healthcare providers may need to rely on patient recollection, which is not always accurate. This can impact diagnosis and treatment.”

Nwadiokwu explained that implementing an EHR system could resolve these challenges and significantly improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

He said, “With digital records, healthcare providers can access patient information within seconds, reducing waiting times and enhancing service efficiency. EHR allows seamless communication between hospitals, laboratories, and pharmacies, ensuring that patients receive the right treatment, even if they visit different healthcare facilities. Unlike paper records, which can be lost or accessed without authorization, EHR systems can be protected using encryption and authentication measures. A digital system enables real-time tracking of health trends, allowing the government to make informed decisions regarding disease control, resource allocation, and policy development. While an initial investment is required, he noted that EHR systems would reduce long-term costs related to paper, printing, and storage, making healthcare administration more cost-effective.

“Transitioning from hardcopy records to EHR requires careful planning and investment. Strengthening digital infrastructure, including stable electricity and internet connectivity in healthcare facilities, is crucial. Medical professionals must be equipped with the skills to use EHR systems efficiently through proper training. Establishing policies to guide data protection, interoperability, and the ethical use of digital records is necessary for long-term sustainability. He also suggested that the government collaborate with technology firms and health organizations to develop sustainable and cost-effective EHR solutions through public-private partnerships.”

Nwadiokwu concluded that adopting Electronic Health Records in Nigeria presents a significant opportunity to enhance healthcare delivery and modernize patient data management.

“By embracing digital transformation, the government can improve efficiency, reduce medical errors, and ensure better healthcare outcomes for all Nigerians.”

He emphasized that with the right investment and commitment, transitioning to an EHR system will not only benefit healthcare providers but also enhance patient experience and public health management.