Impact of using eHealth tools to extend health services to rural areas of Nigeria: protocol for a mixed-method, non-randomised cluster trial.

Impact of using eHealth tools to extend health services to rural areas of Nigeria: protocol for a mixed-method, non-randomised cluster trial. BMJ Open. 2018 Oct 18;8(10):e022174 Authors: Ebenso B, Allsop MJ, Okusanya B, Akaba G, Tukur J, Okunade K, Akeju D, Ajepe A, Dirisu O, Yalma R, Sadeeq AI, Okuzu O, Ors T, Jagger T, Hicks JP, Mirzoev T, Newell JN Abstract INTRODUCTION: eHealth solutions that use internet and related technologies to deliver and enhance health services and information are emerging as novel approaches to support healthcare delivery in sub-Saharan Africa. Using digital technology in this way can support cost-effectiveness of care delivery and extend the reach of services to remote locations. Despite the burgeoning literature on eHealth approaches, little is known about the effectiveness of eHealth tools for improving the quality and efficiency of health systems functions or client outcomes in resource-limited countries. eHealth tools including satellite communications are currently being implemented at scale, to extend health services to rural areas of Nigeria, in Ondo and Kano States and the Federal Capital Territory. This paper shares the protocol for a 2-year project ('EXTEND') that aims to evaluate the impact of eHealth tools on health system functions and health outcomes. METHODOLOGY AND ANALYSIS: This multisite, mixed-method evaluation includes a non-randomised, cluster trial design. The study comprise...
Source: Rural Remote Health - Category: Rural Health Authors: Tags: BMJ Open Source Type: research