Paucity of Health Data in Africa: An Obstacle to Digital Health Implementation and Evidence-Based Practice
Musa S.M. Haruna U.A. Manirambona E. Eshun G. Ahmad D.M. Dada D.A. Gololo A.A. Musa S.S. Abdulkadir A.K. Lucero-Prisno III D.E.
2023Frontiers Media SA
Public Health Reviews
2023#44
Background: Among the numerous challenges that Africa faces in improving its healthcare systems, the paucity of health data stands out as paramount. This study aims to examine the challenges related to the paucity of health data in Africa and its impact on the implementation of digital health and evidence-based practice. The findings of the study reveal that health data availability in Africa is both limited and frequently of poor quality. Several factors contribute to this concerning situation, encompassing inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of resources, and cultural barriers. Furthermore, the available data, despite its limitations, is often underutilized due to a lack of capacity and expertise in data analysis and interpretation. Policy Options and Recommendations: To improve healthcare delivery in Africa, we recommend implementing novel strategies for data collection. It’s important to recognize that effective information technology service is crucial for enhancing healthcare delivery, and a holistic approach is necessary to achieve this. Conclusion: This brief presents information to help policymakers develop long-term solutions to Africa’s health data poverty. Taking action based on this evidence can assist in addressing the problem. Copyright
Africa , digital health , evidence-based practice , health data , health policy
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Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
Seventh-Day Adventist Hospital, Asamang, Agona, Ghana
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
Department of Nursing Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences
School of Medicine
College of Medicine and Health Sciences
Seventh-Day Adventist Hospital
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Department of Nursing Science
Department of Global Health and Development
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