Abstract

The use of smart services in the healthcare sector is transforming the way medical care is being delivered. This thesis critically examines the integration of smart service technology in Nigeria healthcare system, a country facing numerous healthcare challenges. Despite the spate of technological advancements worldwide, Nigeria’s healthcare system predominantly uses paper-based recording system which may leads to inefficiencies, medical errors, and poor patient data management. This research therefore proposes the implementation of an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system which is tailored to the typical Nigerian context in addressing these issues. The current state of smart service usage in Nigeria’s healthcare sector was assessed, providing a foundation for proposing the EHRs. The study presented a detailed design and development process for a prototype EHR system, embedding a unique identifier for patient entrenched into the National Identity Management System, integrating best practices from well-established systems across the world most especially Estonia while adapting them to Nigeria context. The EHR system aims to enhance the management of patient data, improve the accuracy and accessibility of medical records, and support better decision-making among healthcare professionals. The prototype was evaluated by key healthcare professionals in Nigeria who cited significant improvements in patient data management than the paper based recording system which would improve workflow efficiency and data security while helping to make better decision as regards patient care. The study highlighted resistance to change among the barriers to adoption of EHRs and further highlighted the need for training and capacity building for healthcare practitioners in order to ensure successful implementation and adoption of the EHR system. Additionally, the research emphasized the need for a legal and regulatory framework to safeguard patient data and support the integration of the smart service. In essence, this research provides Nigeria a blueprint for moving to a new, smart system of efficient, and technology-based healthcare service delivery. …víceméně