In an era where data drives decisions and technology shapes service delivery, healthcare is evolving from paper records to smart systems. In line with this shift, the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board (RSPHCMB) has embarked on the digitalization of the primary healthcare system in Rivers State. To kick-start the program, the Board has organized a training course for staff to prepare them for the digital health transformation.
The training commenced with Heads of Facilities and will continue over the next few days to include doctors, pharmacists, and Medical Officers of Health, with each group receiving role-specific modules tailored to their responsibilities.
Addressing participants, the Executive Secretary, RSPHCMB, Dr. Chituru Adele, identified key challenges affecting service delivery, including poor data collection, connectivity gaps, gaps in patient management, and inadequate documentation. He explained that the EMR system is designed to improve clinical documentation, treatment planning, patient safety, and facility as well as financial management.
Dr. Adele further disclosed that the EMR rollout will begin in 50 pilot primary healthcare facilities, with plans for gradual expansion across the State. He reported that the Board had purchased 200 computer terminals, 4 earmarked for each of the 50 pilot facilities and already preloaded with the new EMR software.
He encouraged participants to pay close attention and fully familiarize themselves with the system, stressing that its effective use will drive greater accountability, efficiency, and better healthcare outcomes.