Somalia to transform healthcare with digital health technologies

Wednesday August 7, 2024


A healthcare professional conducts a telemedicine consultation, showcasing the integration of digital health technologies to improve accessibility and patient care in remote regions. / CREDIT: Mobile Health International

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia is embarking on a groundbreaking journey to transform its healthcare system through the integration of digital technologies, according to a comprehensive study by BCI Digital Health.

The study, titled "Advancing Digital Healthcare in Somalia: A Review of Modern Technologies and Their Implications," emphasizes the potential of innovations such as telemedicine, mobile health apps, and electronic health records to address significant healthcare challenges in a country long plagued by inadequate infrastructure and limited resources.

"Digital health technologies can play a crucial role in transforming Somalia's healthcare system," said Mohamed Mustaf Ahmed, the study's lead author and a member of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at SIMAD University in Mogadishu. "Telemedicine, for instance, has already shown promise in connecting remote healthcare facilities with urban specialists, improving patient outcomes in underserved regions."

Somalia currently grapples with high infant and maternal mortality rates, widespread malnutrition, and a fragile healthcare system. Integrating digital health technologies could alleviate these issues by providing timely and accurate medical information, enabling remote consultations, and enhancing data management.

Despite the promising potential, the report identifies several obstacles to advancing digital health in Somalia. Political and socioeconomic instability, lack of funding, and an unstable healthcare workforce pose significant barriers. Ahmed emphasized that "addressing these barriers requires careful planning, coordination, and sustained investment."

The study highlights successful African digital health initiatives that could serve as models for Somalia. In Rwanda, drones have significantly reduced the time it takes to deliver medical supplies to remote areas. Ethiopia's mobile health applications have notably improved maternal and newborn health services, showcasing the tangible benefits of digital health solutions.

The report added that a supportive policy and regulatory framework is crucial to fostering the growth of digital health in Somalia. Collaboration between government agencies, international organizations, and local stakeholders is essential to creating an environment conducive to digital health advancements. Community engagement and education are also vital to ensuring the successful adoption of these technologies.

Looking forward, the integration of digital health technologies in Somalia represents a major opportunity to enhance healthcare delivery and outcomes. With strategic planning and international support, Somalia can leverage these modern tools to build a more resilient and effective healthcare system, ultimately improving the well-being of its population.

The report concludes with recommendations for policymakers and healthcare providers to prioritize digital health initiatives. Investing in telecommunications infrastructure, training healthcare professionals, and fostering partnerships with international entities are essential steps toward realizing the full potential of digital health in Somalia.