Introduction

In an era of rapid technological advancement and data-driven solutions, community health initiatives can be significantly enhanced through the strategic use of data. The successful implementation of health programmes relies heavily on community participation, as local stakeholders are crucial for contextual understanding and sustained engagement. In Nigeria, the Adopt-A-Healthcare Facility Programme (ADHFP) exemplifies how data and community involvement can intersect to improve health outcomes.

The Role of Community Participation in Health Programs

Community participation fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, enabling health initiatives to thrive in diverse environments. When communities are involved in decision-making and operational processes, health interventions become more aligned with the population’s unique needs. This participatory approach not only builds trust but also encourages the adoption of health services and practices.

The ADHFP demonstrates the power of community involvement by engaging local governments, community leaders, and indigenous residents in revitalizing primary healthcare centers (PHCs). By involving these stakeholders, the programme ensures that healthcare facilities are accessible, well-equipped, and responsive to community-specific health challenges.

Data as a Catalyst for Improved Health Outcomes

Throughout the program, Data collection and analysis are fundamental to identifying health trends, allocating resources, and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. Our data has been instrumental in tracking key performance indicators, such as general attendance, outpatient visits, antenatal care, immunization rates, and maternal and infant health outcomes.

For instance, the 2024 performance data from the ADHFP highlights significant achievements across multiple states in Nigeria. Rivers State recorded over 24,000 general healthcare attendances, with more than 9,000 children fully immunised. Similarly, Bauchi State achieved over 6,800 general attendances and successfully immunized 760 children. These figures underscore the program’s impact and provide valuable insights for scaling up efforts.

One notable success of the ADHFP is the achievement of zero maternal and infant mortalities across the programme’s operational facilities in 2024. This remarkable outcome underscores the effectiveness of enhanced healthcare services, community engagement, and the strategic use of data to address critical health challenges.

Key Factors Behind the Zero Mortality Milestone

1. Comprehensive Facility Upgrades:
   • Structural repairs and maintenance ensured safe and hygienic environments for care delivery.
   • Reliable energy sources, including solar power, supported critical healthcare functions such as vaccine storage.
   • Plumbing repairs provided clean water essential for safe childbirth and newborn care.
2. Enhanced Staffing and Capacity Building:
   • The recruitment and training of healthcare workers addressed critical staffing shortages.
   • Continuous professional development equipped staff with the skills to handle complex deliveries and emergencies.
3. Community Engagement and Education:
   • Health awareness campaigns educated community members on the importance of antenatal care and safe delivery practices.
   • Local volunteers supported outreach efforts, ensuring that women accessed timely care.
4. Data Monitoring and Evaluation:
   • Continuous data tracking allowed for real-time identification of potential risks.
   • Data-driven insights guided resource allocation and service delivery improvements.

Sustaining Success

To maintain and replicate this achievement, the following steps are crucial:

1. Strengthening Quality of Care: Standardizing care protocols to ensure consistent service delivery across all PHCs.
2. Expanding Staffing and Training: Increasing recruitment and capacity-building initiatives to meet the growing demand for maternal and child health services.
3. Leveraging Digital Technology: Implementing digital health solutions for real-time data collection and monitoring.
4. Community Advocacy: Continuing to involve community members in health advocacy and education efforts.

Leveraging Data for Targeted Interventions

Data-driven decision-making enables health authorities and program implementers to tailor interventions to specific community needs. Through the ADHFP, data has revealed critical challenges such as inadequate staffing, limited access to clean water, and infrastructural deficiencies. Addressing these issues becomes more manageable when data pinpoints where interventions are most needed.

Moreover, the integration of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems within the ADHFP has facilitated continuous assessment and improvement of healthcare services. This approach ensures that progress is tracked, challenges are promptly addressed, and best practices are replicated across facilities.

The Path Forward: Strengthening Data-Driven Community Health Initiatives

To build on the successes of key indicators critical to operating the Programme, the following steps are recommended:

1. Enhanced Community Engagement: Actively involve community members in data collection, analysis, and decision-making processes to ensure that health interventions remain relevant and effective.
2. Capacity Building: Train healthcare workers and community volunteers in data management and analysis to improve the accuracy and utility of health data.
3. Infrastructure Development: Invest in digital health infrastructure to streamline data collection and reporting.
4. Collaborative Partnerships: Foster partnerships between government agencies, private sector organizations, and international development partners to leverage resources and expertise.
5. Transparency and Accountability: Share data findings with community and agency stakeholders to promote transparency and encourage collaborative problem-solving.

Idunmwunvgha PHC, Ward Development Committee. Image Credit: PSHAN

The Bottom-line

The intersection of community participation and data-driven health initiatives offers a promising pathway to improved health outcomes. The ADHFP in Nigeria serves as a compelling example of how leveraging data and involving communities can transform primary healthcare delivery. By building these foundations, stakeholders can create resilient, responsive, and sustainable health systems that meet the needs of all citizens.

Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) and BudgIT Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving healthcare system in Nigeria.

While the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of PSHAN, Dr Tinuola Akinbolagbe signed on behalf of PSHAN, the Country Director of BudgIT, Gabriel Okeowo signed for BudgIT.

The partnership is about upscaling healthcare especially at the grassroot through sharing insights based on access to data that would aid decision about PHCs that needs reformation and adoption among other initiatives.

Both also hope to utilise its extensive network to advocate for funding and resources essential for PHC reform projects.

PSHAN also look foward to using the platform of the MoU to partner with BudgIT to organise and facilitate a one-day summit focused on PHC data insights, ensuring robust participation from private sector entities.

In her welcome address, Focal Lead, ADHFP, PSHAN, Rukayyat Sadiq was optimistic that the MoU will help boost accountability in the health sector.

In her introductory remarks, Akinbolagbe said that it is quite obvious that what both organizations was doing aligns with some duplication of efforts.

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The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organisation, has announced a nationwide call for nominations of primary healthcare centres (PHCs) due for revitalisation in Nigeria.

In a statement on Thursday, the organisation said the initiative, facilitated by the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), is part of the adopt-a-healthcare-facility programme (ADHFP).

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In the face of Nigeria’s struggling healthcare system, the MTN Foundation stands out as a pivotal force, spearheading efforts to reinvigorate primary healthcare nationwide. Founded in 2004, the Foundation has led corporate social investment, directing over NGN 24.73 billion into meaningful projects across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. With more than 1,023 project sites serving 31 million individuals, their efforts encompass education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Central to their mission is the ‘What Can We Do Together’ initiative, launched in 2015, which remains a key component of the MTN Foundation’s work.

This program exemplifies their commitment to collaborative, community-driven projects. Now in its fifth phase, the initiative is investing over N1 billion to revitalise 52 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in states including, amongst others.  This investment aims to bolster healthcare infrastructure and ensure these facilities are well-equipped to serve their communities effectively.

Beyond mere upgrades, the MTN Foundation is committed to a holistic approach, aiming for sustainable impact. By partnering with local communities and stakeholders, the Foundation aligns its developments with the genuine needs and aspirations of the people it serves. Tangible improvements include equipping PHCs with potable water, reliable power, and essential medical equipment. Through the installation of boreholes and provision of alternative power sources, the MTN Foundation ensures that these centres deliver consistent, high-quality care, ensuring the long-term benefits of their initiatives.

Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), through its flagship initiative, Adopt A Healthcare Facility Programme, ADHFP, is proud to partner with the MTN Foundation in this transformative journey. This partnership has already significantly improved healthcare access and outcomes across Nigeria. PSHAN supports the MTN Foundation’s work by ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of the PHCs being upgraded by the MTN Foundation, safeguarding these investments for the long term, and contributing to a more robust primary healthcare system across the country.

While the ambitious goal of upgrading 52 PHCs is commendable, the journey doesn’t end here. We invite individuals, organisations, and communities to play a crucial role in supporting and engaging with the ADHFP initiative.

For more information on how to get involved or support these transformative efforts, visit Together, we can build a future where every Nigerian has access to quality healthcare and a healthier life, empowering you to make a difference.

Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Annual Gala and Awards Night on Friday, 25th October 2024, at the prestigious Civic Centre, Lagos. Building on last year’s inaugural event momentum, the annual Gala exceeded all expectations.

Themed “Celebrating Excellence in Healthcare,” the event was a remarkable celebration of excellence filled with inspiring speeches, delightful entertainment and the recognition of individuals and organisations driving real change. The main event of the evening was the awards ceremony, which appreciated those making a tangible difference in the healthcare sector.

The Gala was attended by industry leaders, government officials, innovators, and healthcare professionals to recognise their impressive contributions to Nigeria’s healthcare system. Notable attendees included World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Representative and Head of Mission to Nigeria, Dr. Walter Mulombo; Executive Director, MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya; Managing Director and CEO, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Zouera Youssoufou; and many others.

Speaking at the event, PSHAN MD/CEO, Dr Tinuola Akinbolagbe highlighted the significance of collaboration in building a trusted healthcare system, saying, “Tonight, we reflect on our journey with your support, driving healthcare equity and meaningful impact. We are honoured to acknowledge those who invested their time and resources in improving health outcomes in our nation. Your dedication inspires us and strengthens our commitment to a healthier Nigeria.”

Prof.Muhammad Ali, Hon. Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, represented by  Dr Ayodeji Oluwole, Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, LUTH; Koessan Kuawu, Deputy Representative, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); and Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, took to the stage to deliver goodwill messages. Ms Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group, also delivered a special virtual address. Delivering the address, Dr. Amina noted that universal health coverage is a key to achieving SDG3 and all the SDGs, from poverty eradication to building peaceful and inclusive society. “

The keynote speech was delivered by Dr. Walter Mulombo, WHO Country Representative and Head of Mission to Nigeria, who looked back on PSHAN’s progress, stating, “When it was founded some years ago, I’m sure we never imagined the scale of the results we’re seeing today. PSHAN’s journey proves that strategic collaboration is the way forward for sustainable healthcare development.”

Speaking on behalf of the PSHAN Board of Directors, Zouera Youssoufou, CEO of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, talked about the organisation’s inception and progress. In her words, “Four people—Aliko Dangote; Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Jim Ovia; and Sola David-Borha—came together with a shared idea: how can the private sector unite to address health issues and support the government? Now, 10 years later, we are witnessing the impact of that vision, and it is only the beginning.

PSHAN’s 2024 Annual Gala & Awards left a lasting impact, promoting stakeholder cooperation whilst setting a high standard for future events. As the curtains closed on the evening, the message was clear:  progress is being made, but there is more to be done. With strengthened partnerships and renewed commitments, PSHAN remains dedicated to driving positive change in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Full List of Winners

The Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) and Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation have commissioned four renovated Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in Edo State.

The renovated PHCs, part of the Adopt-a-Healthcare Facility Programme (ADHFP), will provide improved maternal and child health, immunizations and outpatient services.

The renovated centres, located in Atoruru, Ute, Evbuodia, and Idunmungha, were commissioned on September 13, 2024, marking a major milestone in the Adopt-a-Healthcare Facility Programme (ADHFP). This initiative aims to improve healthcare accessibility and quality in underserved communities.

According to Mrs. Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, Co-Founder and Executive Vice Chair of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, “A healthy population is the cornerstone of sustainable development. We’re committed to bridging the healthcare gap in Nigeria by revitalizing Primary Healthcare Centres.”

Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, MD/CEO of PSHAN, noted, “Our pilot facilities have seen significant increases in outpatient attendance, maternal care registrations, and immunizations – 91% and 832% growth in outpatient attendance and antenatal care registrations, respectively, in 2023 alone.”

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation has committed millions of naira to renovating 23 PHCs across Nigeria under the ADHFP. This partnership between PSHAN and the Foundation is part of a broader strategy to accelerate improvements in health outcomes nationwide.

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Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming various sectors, with healthcare being one of the most promising areas for improvement. With AI, healthcare outcomes can be improved by enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility in a wide range of clinical and administrative activities, including diagnostics, treatment plans, and patient care.

Key Discussion Points

Cost Reduction & Efficiency

• Reducing Healthcare Costs: AI can help reduce healthcare costs by improving diagnosis and treatment, thereby reducing repeat visits and associated expenses.

• Optimizing Human Resources: AI enhances workforce management, improves training, and addresses critical shortages, making the healthcare system more efficient.

Quality Improvement & Universal Health Coverage

• Improving Healthcare Quality: AI can improve the quality of healthcare services, which is essential for improving health indicators and achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030.

• Building Technological Skills: Incorporating technology modules into healthcare workers’ curricula is vital to building the necessary human resources to effectively deploy AI.

Safety & Data Protection

• Stringent Safety Regulations: Implementing robust safety regulations and data protection measures for medical AI is crucial to maintaining patient privacy, trust, and preventing risks.

Context-Specific Tools & Bias

• Addressing Algorithm Bias: Developing contextually relevant AI tools is essential to avoiding algorithm bias and ensuring fair outcomes for all patients.

Interoperability & Sustainability

• Ensuring Interoperability: Interoperability between different AI technologies is key to harnessing their full value, ensuring efficiency, and guaranteeing long-term sustainability.

Regulation & Policy Framework

• Regulatory Framework: Creating and enforcing the right regulatory framework and policies is crucial for optimizing the use of AI in healthcare.

Private Sector Investment

• Private Sector Role: The private sector plays a critical role in providing the investment needed to support AI deployment in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Speakers and Panelists

Welcome Remarks

Mrs Margaret Olele, CEO/Executive Secretary, American Business Council

Anchor

Dr Anne Adah-Ogoh, Director, Policy, PSHAN.

Moderator

Dr Nneka Mobisson, CEO & Co-Founder of mDoc.

Panelists

• Dr. Anthony Adoghe*, Deputy Director, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria.  (*Regrets)
• Dr. George Uduku, General Manager, West Africa, GE Healthcare.
• Dr. Dr Hammed Ninalowo, Founder/CEO, IRDOC Nigeria.

Closing Remarks

Dr Tinuola Akinbolagbe, MD/CEO, PSHAN.

On September 27th, 2024, Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), in collaboration with the American Business Council, convened a thought-provoking periscope themed “The Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Enhancing the Quality of Healthcare Delivery” . The virtual event drew an impressive lineup of healthcare professionals, and thought leaders to discuss the technology’s potential to revolutionise patient care.

Co-hosted by Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, MD/CEO,  PSHAN, and Margaret Olele, CEO and Executive Secretary, American Business Council, and moderated by Dr. Nneka Mobisson, CEO/Co-Founder, mDoc, the session delivered valuable insights into how AI can revolutionise healthcare across Africa, offering fresh and original solutions to some of the continent’s most pressing healthcare challenges. The panellists included Dr. George Uduku, General Manager, GE Healthcare, West Africa, and Dr. Hammed Ninalowo, Founder/CEO, IRDOC Nigeria.

Here are five key lessons from the webinar that promises to reshape the future of healthcare in Africa:

1. AI’s Potential for Transforming Diagnostics

One of the most powerful takeaways from the webinar was how AI could redefine diagnostics, particularly in low-resource settings. Dr Hammed Ninalowo highlighted that instead of prescribing treatments for incorrect ailments, patients can input their symptoms into AI systems, which can analyse the data and suggest possible conditions, guiding healthcare providers toward more accurate diagnoses. This capability can significantly reduce the margin of error in diagnostics, enabling earlier detection of diseases, particularly in Africa, where healthcare systems often struggle with a lack of specialised personnel and overburdened facilities. With the ability to analyse vast amounts of data in real-time, AI tools can significantly reduce the margin of error in diagnoses, enabling earlier detection of diseases.

2. Personalised Treatment Plans Using AI

Another standout point during the webinar was AI’s capacity to deliver personalised treatment plans tailored to individual patients. By making use of patient data and predictive analytics, AI can help healthcare providers create more effective and targeted treatment strategies. For instance, AI algorithms can analyse a patient’s genetic information alongside their medical history to suggest the most effective treatment options, significantly improving treatment adherence and effectiveness. This level of precision is particularly important in addressing the diverse healthcare needs across Africa, where individuals may respond differently to standard treatments due to genetic, environmental, and socio-economic factors.

3. Bridging the Healthcare Talent Gap with AI Solutions

A recurring theme in the discussion was Africa’s shortage of trained healthcare professionals, and how AI could help mitigate this issue. By providing decision support tools for healthcare workers, AI can empower them to manage more complex cases with increased confidence. For example, AI can offer real-time assistance in interpreting diagnostic tests or suggest treatment options based on the latest clinical guidelines. These “digital assistants” can enhance the capabilities of less experienced professionals, helping them make informed, data-driven medical decisions. This support can alleviate some pressure on overburdened healthcare systems, ultimately leading to better patient care. This technology can provide decision support tools for healthcare workers, enabling them to handle more complex cases with more confidence.

4. Overcoming Ethical and Privacy Concerns

One of the challenges AI faces in healthcare is the ethical dilemma around patient privacy and data security. This concern was addressed during the webinar, with experts offering practical ways to ensure that AI applications are ethically sound and secure. The experts discussed the need for robust frameworks to ensure that AI applications respect patient confidentiality and comply with data protection regulations. Strategies to address these concerns include implementing transparent algorithms and maintaining patients’ rights to control their data. Ensuring that AI in healthcare is both transparent and fair will be crucial in gaining public trust and widespread adoption.

5. AI as a Tool for Healthcare Accessibility

The webinar also highlighted AI’s potential to enhance healthcare accessibility across Africa, especially in rural and underserved regions. By making use of telemedicine platforms, mobile health applications, and automated diagnostics, AI can bring specialist care to remote areas where medical professionals are scarce. For instance, AI-powered diagnostic tools can allow patients in isolated communities to receive immediate feedback on their health conditions without needing to travel long distances to healthcare facilities. This democratisation of healthcare access could lead to improved health outcomes for millions who currently face barriers in receiving timely medical attention. The potential for AI to democratise healthcare access could be one of the most exciting developments for Africa’s healthcare future.

The PSHAN periscope was packed with actionable insights and ideas that point to a future where AI plays a central role in African healthcare. With contributions from the distinguished panellists, the session sparked important conversations about the practicalities and possibilities of AI in transforming healthcare delivery.

Follow PSHAN across all social media platforms to get updates on more events that reshape healthcare across Africa.

Over the past 26 years Access Corporation has transformed from a local Nigerian bank into a prominent African financial institution. It now ranks among the top five banks in Nigeria by assets, loans, deposits, and branch network. This remarkable growth is attributed to a steadfast dedication to client solutions and innovative financial advice. Initially focused on corporate banking, Access Corporation broadened its reach by acquiring Nigeria’s International Commercial Bank in 2012. In the two years following this acquisition, the company integrated its operations, invested in infrastructure, and enhanced its product offerings.

Beyond offering financial services, Access Corporation is dedicated to overall well-being. Through its various branches—such as Access Bank Group, Access Pensions, a Payment and Switching Services Company, a Digital Lending Company, and an Insurance Brokerage Company—it understands the important connection between financial stability and health. Since joining Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) in 2014, Access Corporation has dedicated efforts to transforming healthcare in Nigeria, significantly improving accessibility and quality nationwide. A standout initiative is the Malaria-to-Zero campaign, an innovative financing platform mobilising private sector resources to avert at least 1 million malaria cases and deaths by 2020. This initiative reflects Access Corporation’s dedication to public health and its ability to lead impactful health projects.

As a member of PSHAN, Access Corporation plays a pivotal role in the Adopt-a Healthcare-Facility Programme (ADHFP), enhancing healthcare quality and access across Nigeria. Through strategic partnerships and substantial significant support funding, Access Corporation works to bolster healthcare infrastructure,provide essential medical supplies, and promote health education in primary healthcare centres nationwide. This collaboration underscores dedication to improving health outcomes and supporting effective health policy reforms. Through the Adopt-a Healthcare-Facility Programme (ADHFP), PSHAN invites forward thinking individuals and organisations to join the movement to bring quality healthcare to Nigerians. By becoming adopters, members, and partners, companies organisations not only contribute to healthcare improvements, but can also enjoy the benefits of making tax deductible donations that enhance their CSR profiles.

The collaboration between Access Corporation and PSHAN demonstrates the corporation’s dedication to improving health outcomes nationwide. By adopting primary healthcare facilities, Access Corporation saves lives and improves health outcomes, supporting effective health policy reforms.

PSHAN invites innovative and forward-thinking organisations like Access Corporation to join its network and support the Adopt-A-Healthcare-Facility-Programme (ADHFP). By partnering and adopting a healthcare facility, you will play a crucial role in saving lives, enhancing healthcare facilities, and driving meaningful change in communities that need it most. Your support will provide essential resources and allow the creation of more impactful health programs that address the unique challenges faced by Nigerian communities.

For more information on how to become a PHC Adopter and contribute significantly to impacting access to quality primary healthcare in Nigeria, please get in touch with us at: communications@pshan.org .

Together, we can drive substantial improvements in healthcare and ensure a healthier future for all Nigerians.

Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) has announced the call for nominations in anticipation of the 2024 PSHAN Annual Gala & Awards Night. This prestigious event, slated for Friday, October 25, 2024, will honour and celebrate individuals and organisations who have made unparalleled contributions to advancing healthcare in Nigeria. 

Nominations are open across five categories: Federal, State, and Local Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies; Media; International Agencies, Local NGOs, and Healthcare Institutions; Individuals; and The Organized Private Sector. PSHAN invites the public to recognise remarkable individuals and organisations who have significantly impacted the healthcare landscape by submitting their nominations for the 2024 PSHAN Annual Gala & Awards Night.

Highlighting the importance of the awards, Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, the MD/CEO of PSHAN said, “These awards recognise the remarkable individuals and organizations that are revolutionizing Nigeria’s healthcare landscape through their dedication, innovation, and leadership. By celebrating their achievements and impact, we hope to inspire a new generation of healthcare leaders, innovators, and change-makers to join us in building a healthier, more equitable future for every Nigerian, where access to quality healthcare is a reality for all.”

To nominate, visit the PSHAN nominations portal using https://pshan.org/gala/, click the “Nominate Now” button, and complete the nomination form. To be eligible, nominees must operate or reside in Nigeria or effect positive change in the country. Multiple nominations across different award categories are allowed.

The PSHAN Annual Gala & Awards Night in its second year-running, promises to be an evening of celebration and inspiration, bringing together leaders, medical professionals, and changemakers committed to improving healthcare in Nigeria. For further details and/or sponsorship, please contact communications@pshan.org