African Journal of Risk Management (Business focus) | 02 August 2011
Urban Slum Residents' Digital Telemedicine Utilization Patterns and Health Outcomes Evaluations in Lagos, Nigeria
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Abstract
Urban slums in Lagos, Nigeria have limited access to healthcare services due to geographical and economic barriers. Digital telemedicine offers a promising solution by providing remote consultations and health information. An ethnographic study was conducted, involving semi-structured interviews with 50 participants from selected urban slums. Data collection included participant observation, document review, and focus group discussions. Participants reported a preference for digital telemedicine for follow-up appointments, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Usage varied by gender (higher among women) and socioeconomic status (higher among lower-income groups). Digital telemedicine shows potential as a viable healthcare solution in urban slums of Lagos, though further research is needed to refine service delivery and address user preferences. Healthcare providers should consider gender-specific needs when designing digital telemedicine services. Policymakers could explore subsidies or community-based initiatives to increase access among lower-income populations.