E-CLINIC LAUNCHED IN ABUJA.

An online portal for health, EClinicNaija, has launched in Nigeria in hopes of providing healthcare over the internet. The portal, run by Tagged Technologies andToplink Global, hopes to use information and communication technology to eliminate stigma, discrimination and social exclusion and increase uptake of healthcare services, said Omofoman Daniel, managing director of Tagged Technologies.Eclinicnaija.com.ng’s wellness clinic provides a database of registered pharmacies, reminders and alerts for antenatal through pregnancy for women. It also offers direct lines to consult a doctor, schedule an appointment or call foran ambulance over the phone.Its electronic library allows health workers in need of continuous professional development update and collaborate on research.“Leveraging on increasing internet access in Nigeria and high mobile phone penetration of over 81.7 per cent our diagnostic and management room will provide Nigerian medical professionals practicing abroad with virtual access to the healthcare delivery system,” said Daniel. By bringing the health sector to Nigerians’ fingertips, the portal hopes to retain foreign exchange in a bid to stop medical tourism.In 2012, some 18,000 Nigerians on medical visas to India alone spent over N42 billion, said Daniel. “Our solutions will encourage qualitative health care delivery and increase confidence in the Nigerian healthcare system,” he said. The portal’s listing of only registered professionals and facilities to make them easier to reach could also help fish out quacks, Daniel said.