A mixed methods study of the challenges and prospects of utilizing telemedicine in the delivery of healthcare to Nigerian children

Abstract

Background Despite its immense potential, telemedicine has been underutilized for the paediatric population in Nigeria despite unacceptable mortality indices in newborns and children aged less than 5 years. This study identifies the barriers, prospects and benefits of telemedicine utilization to achieve the second target of the third Sustainable Development Goals. Methods The convergent parallel approach with a mixed methods design was used in this study. Interviewer-administered electronic questionnaires were used to obtain data from 57 and 50 mothers in an urban and a rural healthcare facility, respectively, in Abuja, Nigeria. Audio-recorded semistructured in-depth interviews lasting up to 20 minutes were conducted with key informants, including a paediatrician, an ICT expert and a matron. The qualitative data were analysed via an inductive thematic analysis approach. Results Telemedicine awareness was significantly greater among urban respondents than among rural respondents (p < 0.000). Perceptions of telemedicine as inferior to physical consultation, lack of awareness and cost of service, and resource constraints were identified as barriers. Respondents who were unaware of telemedicine were 0.27 times less willing to pay for the services (p = 0.017). Themes generated include resource constraints, standard operating procedures and possible advantages. Telemedicine was found to be beneficial in terms of patient convenience and physical workspace decongestion. Conclusion Public insights into the applicability of telemedicine to newborn and child care and the availability of resources will enhance its utilization, with attendant benefits.