Prof Andrew Uloko, the Acting President of the Endocrine and Metabolism Society of Nigeria, stressed the importance of utilizing technology and modern innovations to improve healthcare access for the approximately 11 million Nigerians dealing with diabetes.
He mentioned that the country has less than 200 endocrinologists to care for the increasing number of patients with various endocrine diseases.
Uloko conveyed this information during a press conference at the start of a three-day conference for endocrinologists at Conference Hotels in Abeokuta.
The 45th General Meeting and Scientific Conference was centered around the theme “Diabetes and Technology” in 2024. Uloko explained that the use of technology in healthcare, including artificial intelligence and robotics, can significantly enhance the quality of care for those with endocrine diseases.
He expressed hope that the conference would raise awareness about available technologies to improve diabetes and related illness care and provide recommendations for policymakers to enhance healthcare delivery.
Uloko also addressed the issue of a shortage of endocrinologists in the country, many of whom are leaving for better opportunities abroad, but he believed that technology could help address this challenge and mitigate the impact of the migration of professionals seeking better prospects.
He said, “For health experts like endocrinologists, who are very scarce globally and even more so in our country, the numbers are critically low. In our society, we have about 200 or fewer endocrinologists to serve the entire population of Nigeria, and a substantial number of them are still leaving the country. This is a serious concern.
“However, with technology, it is now possible for a patient to transmit data to their doctor in the UK, America, Australia, or anywhere else in the world. Within minutes, the doctor can review the patient’s data, interact with them, and advise on the next steps to improve their health.”
Dr. Tomi Coker, Commissioner for Health, emphasized the crucial role of technology in enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare delivery.
He expressed optimism that the conference would identify adaptable global technologies to address the country’s unique challenges, particularly given the staggering 80 million Nigerians struggling with multidimensional poverty.
This aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s goal to digitize healthcare services and alleviate delivery burdens.
The conference’s timeliness was highlighted, with around 200 delegates expected to attend, including experts from various fields: endocrinologists, anatomists, pathologists, family physicians, and nutritionists, noted Dr. Olubiyi Adesina, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee.
