Health Tech Insider 4th Edition

• MUSIC AS A THERAPY FOR THE SOUL

• A BREACH OF PRIVACY? ETHICAL CONCERNS SURROUNDING THE COLLECTION AND USE OF GENOMICS DATA.

• CRYPTIC PREGNANCY FRAUD; CAN TECHNOLOGY CURB THE TIDE?

• IMPACT OF CULTURE AND SOCIETAL BELIEF ON HEALTH BEHAVIORS IN NIGERIA.

• NAVIGATING PEDIATRIC CARE WITH OUR HEALTH CRUSH OF THE QUARTER: RENNER.

• SHOULD SLAP-FIGHT BE CONSIDERED A SPORT?

PATIENT CHARTER GLOBAL AND DOMESTIC OUTLOOK

HUMAN AUGMENTATION AND ITS MANY CHANGES

HEALTH TECHNOLOGY AND HOW IT CAN IMPROVE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN OLDER ADULTS

THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY ON BRAIN DRAIN IN THE HEALTHCARE SECTOR.

NHIA 2022 & THE REALITIES OF UHC

THE JAPA EFFECT: A LOOMING CRISES FOR THE NIGERIA HEALTHCARE SECTOR OR A BLESSING IN DISGUISE

CEO’S Welcome Message

Dear Valued readers,

I am thrilled to welcome you to the fourth edition of our quarterly healthtech journal as we gradually inch towards our first anniversary! As always, it’s an honour to have the opportunity to connect with you and share our insights on the recent trends and developments across the intersection of health and tech. We have brought together our wealth of knowledge and insights to provide you with compelling content.

From policy-stimulating conversations to the future of tech-in-health, we have covered it all in this edition. You will find thought-provoking articles, insightful interviews with industry leaders, and analysis of emerging trends that are shaping the future of healthcare.

Our goal with this journal is to empower our readers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving health-tech landscape. We believe that by sharing our expertise and insights, we can make a positive impact on the world and improve the lives of millions of people.

So, without further ado, I invite you to dive into this edition of our health-tech journal and explore the world of health technology with us. We hope that you find it both informative and inspiring, and we look forward to hearing your feedback.

Thank you for your continued support, and enjoy the read!

Cheers, Ayo-Olagunju Muna CEO Genesys Health

Impact Of Culture And Societal Belief On Health Behaviors In Nigeria.

By Agbekorode Oluwafemi Richard

Nigeria, a land celebrated for its cultural wealth and multiplicity, demonstrates a flourishing vitality and a thriving medical system that merits closer scrutiny. The interaction between culture and societal convictions has a deep effect on health actions and routines. Therefore, it is crucial that we examine this association to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the nation’s health terrain.

This piece will delve into the everevolving health landscape of Nigeria, where cultural traditions run strong and influence the delivery of quality medical care. We will examine the abundant cultural heritage that gives this country its individuality and uncover how the combination of technology and custom can aid advancements in the healthcare industry. Come along as I uncover the intricately woven fabric of diversity and invention that forms the heart of Nigeria’s healthcare environment.

The Impact of Culture on Health Behaviours

The manner in which individuals in Nigeria seek medical care is influenced by cultural beliefs and customs. Some cultural communities in Nigeria hold the belief that illnesses are caused by supernatural forces, such as witchcraft or spiritual curses, which leads to seeking traditional remedies and spiritual healers instead of conventional medical treatment. While these remedies may provide relief, it’s crucial to note that many herbal/spiritual healings are based on the use of plants that have been scientifically demonstrated to contain beneficial nutrients for the body. For instance, a mild malaria infection can be treated by drinking a mixture of bitter leaf (V.amygdalina) and sweet basil (O.gratissimum) leaves in water. However, this is a risky practice as there is no regulated intake and excessive consumption can result in serious health complications. Also, the understanding of contemporary medicine differs greatly. Western medicine may be seen differently across

various cultural communities. Some may view it as a symbol of advancement and modernization, while others may approach it with caution or skepticism. For instance, there was a call for a boycott of polio vaccines by political and religious leaders in the states of Zamfara, Kano, and Kaduna in 2003 due to the belief that they were contaminated with antifertility agents (estradiol hormone), HIV, and cancercausing agents. This stems from a lack of confidence in the Western world, due to the perceived retaliation for the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers and the questionable ethics of the failed 1996 Pfizer Trovan trial in Kano, where 200 children were experimented on and 11 died. Additionally, specific health issues may also be burdened with cultural biases, impacting the way people seek medical care. For instance, mental health concerns are often considered taboo in certain regions of Nigeria, leading to stigmatization of those affected and deterring them from seeking professional support. In numerous situations, traditional medicine is still the preferred method of treatment for various illnesses due to its perceived efficacy, accessibility, and affordability. The role of

community and family is also significant in health behaviors, as health choices are frequently made in collaboration with others. The significance of cultural context in health cannot be overemphasized, and it is imperative to comprehend these intricacies to improve the country’s health outcomes

Technology Meets Culture: Navigating the Intersection

Embracing Cultural Diversity for Better Health

Heightening consciousness through education is essential for advancing cultural appreciation and blending traditional and contemporary medical methods. By nurturing cultural understanding, we can overcome the hindrances that obstruct the integration of technology in the healthcare sector and more effectively cater to the health requirements of the nation. Accepting cultural diversity is vital for improved health, and it is crucial that we acknowledge the importance of cultural heritage in defining the country’s health outlook.

The use of technology is increasingly prevalent in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, ranging from mobile health applications and telemedicine to the adoption of electronic medical records like Genesys EMR. This has had a beneficial impact on healthcare, providing quicker access to medical services and enhanced patient outcomes. However, the introduction of technology can also be a hindrance to traditional cultural practices, leading to resistance. To guarantee a smooth integration, it is critical to take into account the cultural context, such as indigenous beliefs, language, and customs. It is also vital to make technology accessible and educate people on its usage. Furthermore, it is essential to engage key stakeholders, such as community and religious leaders, in the process to foster understanding and collaboration. By adopting a thoughtful approach and carefully considering cultural norms, technology can be leveraged to improve access to quality healthcare, ultimately resulting in better health

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Wrapping Up: The Future of Health in Nigeria

The intricate relationship between culture and societal attitudes in Nigeria significantly affects health attitudes and practices. By examining this connection, a clearer understanding of the nation’s health situation can be obtained, and effective methods for meeting its health requirements can be formulated. It is imperative for healthcare organizations and interested parties in Nigeria to continuously communicate with local communities in order to comprehend their cultural convictions and rituals and to eliminate any cultural obstacles that might impede the utilization of healthcare services. By fostering trust and creating culturally sensitive healthcare systems, access to healthcare can be guaranteed for all, regardless of cultural background.

Moreover, investing in cultural proficiency training for healthcare providers and decision-makers is crucial for delivering culturally suitable and efficient healthcare services. By

providing healthcare workers with the necessary skills and understanding to operate within cultural surroundings, healthcare services can be responsive to community needs and result in improved health outcomes.

In conclusion, the future of healthcare in Nigeria is optimistic and with a continued emphasis on cultural dynamics, a healthier and more energetic future can be created for all Nigerians. By embracing cultural diversity and including cultural context in healthcare initiatives, health disparities can be alleviated, health outcomes can be enhanced, and overall well-being can be promoted for all communities.

As A Therapy For The Soul

By Agbekorode Oluwafemi Richard

The Healing Power of Music—An Exploration of Music Therapy

For generations, people have recognized the power of music in healing the mind and spirit. However, some may still be curious about the ins and outs of music therapy and how it works. Music therapy utilizes music to promote physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being, providing individuals with a creative and expressive form of therapy that allows them to explore their emotions, manage stress and anxiety, and find inner peace. It can be implemented in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, mental health facilities, and rehabilitation centers, and can benefit people of all ages and cultures. To cater to individual needs, music therapists may use a range of techniques, including singing, playing instruments, and songwriting. Ultimately, music therapy is a scientifically proven and highly effective form of therapy that can have a positive impact on various aspects of an individual’s well-being.

The Science Behind Mind-Body Harmony

power of music to positively influence both the mind and body. The latest research indicates that music has the unique ability to stimulate the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with feelings of happiness and pleasure. This can lead to a significant reduction in stress and anxiety levels, providing an overall sense of calm and tranquility. Additionally, music has been found to activate the release of endorphins, natural painkillers that can be an effective alternative to traditional pain management methods for those with chronic pain. The scientific evidence supporting music therapy confirms that it is a powerful healing tool capable of promoting both mental and physical well-being, and has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about treatment and healing.

The Rhythm of Relief

Music therapy is a groundbreaking approach to healing that recognizes the

The use of music therapy extends beyond physical healing to positively impact mental well-being. It is an effective tool for those struggling with anxiety and depression, providing a comprehensive approach to managing mental health complexities by improving

mood, reducing symptoms, and enhancing self-worth. The creative process of making and performing music enables individuals to manage and release emotions in a safe and nurturing environment, fostering emotional control. Music therapy is an innovative and effective technique to help individuals cope with emotional distress, such as grief, anger, and trauma. It enables individuals to express their emotions, gain a deeper understanding of their feelings, and improve emotional wellbeing. As a universal language, music brings people together and promotes positivity, which can have a profound impact on all areas of life.

Psychological Benefits of Music: Strumming Away Stress

The impact of music on our mental and emotional state is significant. It has the power to alleviate our worries, diminish stress and tension, enhance our spirits, and even combat despondency. For example, classical music has been demonstrated to be particularly effective in enhancing mental health. Its soft, slow melodies can help reduce stress and tension, lower blood pressure, and

promote better sleep quality. Studies suggest that listening to Baroque-era classical music, in particular, can ease symptoms of depression. Nature sounds are another category of music that can positively affect our mental health. The calming sounds of birds chirping, waves crashing, and rainfall soothes our bodies and mind. These sounds can also foster a connection with nature, which is known to be beneficial for our mental health. Instrumental music, such as piano or guitar, is another type of music that can improve our mental wellbeing. The absence of lyrics enables us to concentrate on the melody, resulting in a feeling of relaxation and a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression. Singing or humming is also therapeutic for our mental health. Singing can calm our minds and ease stress, and regulating our breathing, can be beneficial for panic attacks and anxiety. Furthermore, singing with others can cultivate a sense of community and social connectedness. Finally, lively and energetic music can elevate our mood and enhance our mental health. Listening to upbeat music can make us feel more hopeful, energetic, and motivated. This kind of music can also encourage us to be

more active and exercise, which has a positive impact on our mental health.

Wrapping Up!

The advent of music therapy has brought about a holistic approach to healthcare, ushering in a new era of healing and wellness. As the benefits of music therapy become increasingly apparent, whether you crave the energetic beats of Afrobeat and Amapiano to transport you to uncharted territories, the mellow melodies of slow RnBs to feel the essence of love, or the calming sounds of rain and ASMR to aid in sleeping, heed Rihanna’s plea and “Please don’t stop the music.” Undoubtedly, this pioneering method will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare.

CRYPTIC PREGNANCY FRAUD; CAN TECHNOLOGY CURB THE TIDE?

by Adeyinka Adenikinju

When you look at a pair of words with different meanings depending on the geographical location, “cryptic pregnancy” would not have been one of those pairs you would have thought to see. However, the pair of words have come to have not only dual meanings but in Nigeria, the meaning represents a sinister situation that needs to be exposed and stopped at all costs.

Now let us state some definitions to help us in this expose; universally, cryptic pregnancy, also called a stealth pregnancy or a denied pregnancy, is one in which a person does not know they are pregnant until about halfway through pregnancy or even up until labor or birth. How possible is this? Well, there are a lot of instances where

occurrence can be possible.

Cryptic pregnancy can occur if pregnancy symptoms do not present themselves or are not noticed, so in these cases, the pregnant woman experiences the common pregnancy symptoms in a mild, denied, or attribute the symptom to another cause. The belief that they cannot be pregnant or the denial of it like instances of nursing mothers being pregnant, a woman in menopause, or using birth control pills not to become pregnant. Mental health and other medical conditions can also increase the risk of occurrence in women. These women may experience symptoms like; Slight weight gain, constipation , spotting, swollen, tender breasts, bloating, frequent urination, vomiting,

nausea, and cramping.

It must be said though that this is an exceedingly rare type of pregnancy, 1 in 475 pregnancies go undetected or unnoticed until the 20-week oWr five-month mark. One in 2,500 pregnancies goes unrecognized until a person goes into labor (Jenkins, Millar, & Robins, 2011).

Our focus in this article is the misleading meaning or circumstances around “cryptic pregnancy” in Nigeria where it is used to refer to false pregnancy by WWfraudulent individuals who manipulate women with infertility conditions (ONYINYECHI & NGOZI, n.d.).

These women are deceived by deceitful midwives, doctors, or quacks who extort them

financially. The abundance of “baby factories” a term for places where women are paid to be impregnated and deliver babies who would later be sold, contributes to the successful operations of these unscrupulous healthcare workers who sometimes in connivance with the women in need of babies to call their own.

The connivance with the women is much needed in some cases as the delivery is mostly staged-managed. It gets worse in some instances, as some babies are stolen at birth by their unsuspecting mothers who are later told their babies died during delivery. This in its own sense lies another sensitive area of concern “Infant abduction”

But most of the women

were clearly deceived throughout the whole stage of pregnancy. They make them pregnant by injecting them with estrogens to make them feel pregnant and prompt physical changessymptoms associated with pregnancy, all without their knowledge.

These women are then told that their uterus is covering the baby, so that is why an ultrasound, or any other tests would be unable to pick up traces of the child. When it is time for delivery, the women are “delivered” by C-Section, where another child is presented to them as theirs, without their knowledge (Nwokolo, 2020).

Most of these women are unable to breastfeed, which would deprive the babies of the muchneeded breast milk, another concern will be the effect of the hormones given to these women to make them feel pregnant or present with pregnancy symptoms which could lead to cancer.

It is worth noting that newborns are now more susceptible to being abducted given to the fact that after delivery, hospitals are increasingly moving away from the use of nurseries in favor of keeping infants in the room with the mother following birth. This is beneficial for parental bonding and other added benefits, but this also means newborns are more vulnerable as they spend most of their time in an area that is easier to gain access to and where a potential stranger impersonating hospital staff is more likely to go undetected. So, it is not surprising to see that reflect when The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) reported in 2008 that in the past 25 years, 252 newborns were abducted in the USA. Alarmingly, almost half of it – 123 cases – took place in an obstetric or pediatric setting.

Why the fuss? Well, in Nigeria, women who are desperately trying to conceive are willing to

“baby factories” a term for places where women are paid to be impregnated

suppress the pressure of society or appease family pressure, or worse still deceive their husbands, go the extra mile which could include visiting spiritualists, religious houses, miracle centers, buying babies from unscrupulous midwives and their cohorts.

Imagine the trauma and the mental health implication of a mother whose baby has been stolen during childbirth (infant abduction); which is also a thing of worry in Uganda and some other countries, or a father finding out that the paternity of his child is being contested after several years …. Damaging, worse off are the health facilities where these atrocities take place and they come with the barrage of bad publicity, litigations, and the likes.

Various concerned parties have suggested precautionary steps to prevent infant abduction and limit the excesses of those involved in cryptic pregnancy and paternity fraud.

Education on these precautionary steps and the nefarious and lucrative ring of players involved in cryptic pregnancies and paternity fraud, the acceptance of adopted babies into Nigerian societies (or countries with attached interest to babies) as well as Technology, would go a long way in curbing this unpalatable phenomenon (Adepoju, 2015).

Technology’s role in disrupting this phenomenon

With Technology infant abduction can be reduced or eliminated using Radio Frequency Identification or RFID.

A BREACH OF PRIVACY? ETHICAL CONCERNS SURROUNDING THE COLLECTION AND USE OF GENOMICS DATA

9 By Miracle Ifezue

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the collection and use of genomics data for medical research and personalized healthcare. The availability of such data comes with various advantages like the advancement in biomedical science, informatics and bioethics. While these advancements have the potential to improve the diagnosis and treatment

of genetic disorders, they have also raised concerns regarding privacy and ethical considerations, this situation has presented the general society and medical sector with the problem of a clash of interests. The breach of privacy in the collection and use of genomics data has become a topic of debate and reallife examples illustrate the potential consequences of

mishandling such data.

the security of personal data and the need for increased measures to protect such information.

One of the primary concerns surrounding the collection and use of genomics data is the risk of data breaches. In 2020, the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) experienced a data breach that exposed the personal and genetic data of thousands of patients. The data included patients’ names, dates of birth, and genetic test results, which could be used to identify individuals and their potential risk for certain diseases. In one instance a stranger visited a woman’s home and informed her of her details. In various other cases, the NHS has had to pay thousands of pounds in damages to victims of this breach. In a research carried out by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), it was stated that 3557 personal data breaches were reported across the health sector and although this number is quite high there is a major probability that it is even higher due to the number of unreported cases. A combination of the various instances of data breaches sparked public concern about

Over the years the collection of genomics data has proven to be very advantageous, it has helped scientists and health professionals better understand diseases and how to best combat and prevent them it has also greatly contributed to the growth of precision medicine which is where the doctors analyze a patient’s DNA to better understand which drug would be the best and most efficient in combating the disease. Taking it outside health care the use of this data has helped solve crimes, this occurs when DNA gotten from the crime scene is matched to the general database to find a match or even to exonerate innocent suspects by matching their DNA to that at the crime scene. It is also imperative to note that in a study done by the Harvard Medical School

Personal Genome Project (PGP), they arrived at the opinion that guaranteeing total privacy was impossible, they made it

imperative to inform volunteers about the benefits and risks of the project, although they took cognoscente of the risks involved they were still in support of the collection due to the advantage and its impact on the general furtherance of research and the breakthroughs that can be achieved through it.

Several solutions have been purposed to mitigate this problem, the data being stored in federated models taking away an over-centralization of power, as a result of this, one individual or organization cannot possess all the data at once. Although these federated models present a solution to the risks presented by collecting this data, this solution introduces another problem which is the high probability of duplicating data. Although a solution for each piece of information be granted a serial number of some sort has been presented, only time can tell if it works. Efforts have been made by the Government to put policies and laws in place to govern the collection, distribution and use of this data. We can see an example of one of

these policies when we look at the Mayo Clinic’s Biobank Privacy Policy. Another ethical concern surrounding the use of genomics data is the potential for discrimination. Insurance companies or employers could use this information to discriminate against individuals based on their genetic risk factors. For instance, a company might refuse to hire an individual who has an increased risk of developing cancer in the future. Such discrimination can have serious adverse effects on individuals and society, leading to stigmatization and exclusion of certain groups.

Moreover, there is a concern that the use of genomics data could lead to the exploitation of vulnerable populations. Historically, there have been instances where medical research has been carried out on vulnerable populations without their consent. These groups may include people with disabilities, prisoners, or those living in poverty. Without proper consent and protections in place, these populations may be at risk of being exploited for their genetic data.

In conclusion, the collection and use of genomics data have raised serious concerns regarding privacy and ethical considerations. The risk of data breaches and potential consequences of mishandling such information. The benefits gotten from collecting this data have proven very crucial to the growth and development of research. It is crucial to have strict regulations in place to protect the privacy of individuals and ensure that their genetic data is not misused. Only with responsible handling can the promise of genomics data for personalized healthcare be realized.

Navigating Pediatric Care With Our Health Crush Of The Quarter: Dr Ayodele Renner.

By Adekunle Faderera

As a paediatrician, Dr. Renner has seen it all. From anxious parents to sick children, he has encountered challenges that require not just medical expertise, but also empathy and cultural sensitivity. Dr. Renner, a renowned paediatrician with vast experience in child health and welfare, is a man who has dedicated his life to saving and improving the lives of children. In this interview, we explore Dr. Renner’s journey to becoming a paediatrician, and where he shares his insights on navigating paediatric care, cultural differences, and the future of medicine.

Q1: What inspired you to become a paediatrician, and how did you get started in the field?

Dr Renner: His passion for helping children began with his desire to follow in his father’s footsteps, who is also a doctor. While initially, he wanted to be a surgeon, he discovered that paediatricians were better suited for him due to his friendly nature and interaction with kids. After completing his NYSC, Dr. Renner went on to pursue his residency in LUTH, which he completed in 2017.

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Q A SESSION

Q2: How do you approach communication with children and their families, especially when delivering difficult news or discussing sensitive topics?

Dr Renner: As a paediatrician, communication is the hallmark of Dr. Renner’s medical practice. He emphasises the importance of having the necessary skills, such as sensitivity and empathy, to communicate effectively with both the child and their parents. Dr. Renner ensures that his patients are comfortable and free from distraction when discussing sensitive topics, and he always avoids using technical jargon. Dr. Renner also encourages parents to seek support from groups and counselling services, especially when it comes to chronic diseases like asthma and sickle cell anaemia.

Q3. What are some of the most common health concerns you see in young children, and what steps can parents take to help prevent these issues?

Ans: Dr. Renner sees many

common health concerns among young children, including viral respiratory infections, tummy infections,

and jaundice in newborns. However, in Nigeria, there are high cases of sickle cell anaemia children and asthma. To help prevent these issues, Dr. Renner encourages parents to follow the child survival strategy, which includes exclusive breastfeeding, immunisation, growth monitoring, and injury prevention. Dr. Renner emphasises that learning about these strategies is essential in helping parents keep their children healthy and happy.

Dr. Renner acknowledges that learning is an everyday process, and he is always eager to incorporate the latest research into his practice. He also streams conferences online to keep up with his busy schedule.

Q5: How do you work with other healthcare providers, such as nurses, therapists, and specialists, to provide comprehensive care for your patients?

Q4: How do you stay up to date with the latest research and developments in paediatric medicine, and how do you incorporate this information into your practice?

To stay up to date with the latest developments in paediatric medicine, Dr. Renner focuses on hands-on knowledge and support from his colleagues. He also regularly reads journal articles and attends professional meetings and conferences.

Ans: Dr. Renner understands that healthcare is a multidisciplinary profession and emphasises the importance of collaboration in providing comprehensive care for his patients. He works closely with other healthcare providers, such as nurses, therapists, and specialists, to provide the best care possible for his patients. Dr. Renner acknowledges that it takes an army to take care and treat a patient, and he values the input and contributions of all healthcare providers.

Q6: What advice do you have

for parents who may be nervous or anxious about bringing their child to the doctor, and how do you help put them at ease?

background, language barriers, and socioeconomic status?

Ans: Dr. Renner advises parents to address the root of their anxiety before coming to the hospital. Some parents may have had negative experiences in the past, but every situation is different, and delaying medical attention can be detrimental to the child’s health. To alleviate some of their concerns, Dr. Renner suggests that parents do their research beforehand, such as learning about the drugs their child may receive. Dr. Renner acknowledges the importance of prayer and religious beliefs, but also emphasises the need to combine these beliefs with medical treatment, as doctors and nurses are there to help.

A: Dr. Renner emphasises the importance of respecting patient autonomy, particularly in cases where religious beliefs may influence medical decisions. However, if a child is a minor, the court may intervene in certain cases. To understand each patient’s cultural background and beliefs, Dr. Renner listens carefully to patients and their families, and provides counselling when necessary.

Q7: How do you tailor your approach to meet the unique needs of each individual child and family, taking into account factors such as cultural

Q8: Can you describe a particularly challenging case you’ve worked on, and how you were able to help the child and family navigate the situation?

A: One of the most challenging cases Dr. Renner has encountered is a child with sickle cell anaemia who suffered a stroke. Blood transfusions were necessary, but in Nigeria, where Dr. Renner practices, blood donation is relatively low. To ensure his patient received the care needed, Dr. Renner went

to great lengths to acquire the necessary blood, including picking it up himself. This is just one example of how Dr. Renner goes above and beyond to provide the best possible care for his patients.

Q9: What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job as a paediatrician, and what motivates you to continue practising medicine in this field?

A: According to Dr. Renner, genetics and climate change are two of the most important trends that will impact the future of paediatric medicine. With advances in gene manipulation, paediatricians and geneticists will work together to address genetic diseases. Climate change may also lead to the emergence of new diseases and the need for new treatment approaches.

Q11: Do you think robots will take over your field?

A: For Dr. Renner, the most rewarding aspect of his job is seeing children recover and return to their normal, healthy selves. Despite the challenges, he continues to be motivated by his desire to help children and their families, and hopes to one day join a teaching hospital to share his expertise with future generations of paediatricians.

A: Dr. Renner does not believe robots will replace human paediatricians anytime soon. He notes that empathy cannot be programmed, and that human connection is crucial in paediatric care.

Q10: What do you see as some of the most important trends and changes in paediatric medicine today, and how do you see these impacting the future of the field?

In summary, Dr. Renner’s insights highlight the need for cultural sensitivity, empathy, and a patient-centred approach in paediatric care. As advances in medicine continue to shape the field, it is clear that the human touch will remain a critical component of effective paediatric care.

SHOULD SLAP-FIGHT BE CONSIDERED A SPORT?

Munachimso Ayo-Olagunju & Miracle Ifezue

The history of combat sports can be traced back to the BC era and ancient civilizations such as; Greece, Rome and Egypt, where gladiators were pitted against each other in the Colosseum in a fight to the death often for the thrill and amusement of spectators. Behind the brutality of these events, there was also a burgeoning economy, which flourished on ticket sales and gambling, which played a pivotal role in the survival of combat sports to date.

Capitalists and entrepreneurs under various promotions like; WWE, UFC, ShowTime, BKFC, etc have channelled people’s passion and primal desires into a billion-dollar sporting and entertainment industry, with the title of gladiator being retired for the more professional, athlete and the inclusion of some of these sporting activities, some of which include; boxing, taekwondo, judo, wrestling, kickboxing, karate, Muay Thai, etc into mainstream global sporting competitions such as the Olympics

With the advancements of civilizations and modernization, the once barbaric nature of these combat sports has been refined, with rules, regulations and governance built into them, with the utmost priority being the participants’ safety. Globalization, having facilitated the spread and sharing of cultures has made foreign martial arts and combat disciplines ubiquitous.

I’m sure every combat sports fanatic and enthusiast has recently come across viral clips of opponents having a go at each other with slaps, in a bid to see who can out-slap the other, enduring the most pain. Slap fight is not entirely novel, but has gained prominence of late, as it’s being backed by the UFC, the biggest MMA fight promotion in the world. The viral and

disturbing nature of these videos shows the contestant often left unconscious and incoherent and brutally disfigured. It has led to combat sports athletes and aficionados questioning its root as a sport and what it

represents. Slap fighting is an extreme sport that involves two competitors slapping each other in the face until one of them is knocked out or gives up. Unlike other combat sports with their roots in some form of martial arts and incorporating elements of sports science, slap fighting lacks any specific art or science to it. Those in the opposing

more pronounced, in

comparison to other established combat sports, which offer some form of protection to the athletes. In boxing and MMA for instance, the gloves reduce the impact and shock of the bare knuckle against the bone. Some other MMA disciplines require you to don padded protective armour

argument of slap-fighting argue that it is inherently violent and can perpetuate negative gender stereotypes by reinforcing the idea that physical violence is a form of masculinity. The risks are dangers in slap-fighting are

Figure 1: The severely disfigured face of a contestant

and there are regulations aimed at protecting sensitive organs of the body. The mere fact that you are allowed to dodge, weave and use other defence mechanisms to protect your head from direct impact is an indication that safety is a priority. In UFC for instance, you cannot knee or kick a grounded opponent. In orthodox combat sports, the umpires are more involved and can step into the proceedings of the match to protect the athletes as compared to slapfighting, whose objective is premised upon welcoming and enduring much impact to the brain and whose umpires are merely spectators, as the harm is often done before they can intervene directly. Little wonder since the short time since slapfights emergence, the number of injuries sustained has been undeniably and unimaginably high, which has fueled the criticism surrounding it and has been met by an equal amount of criticism from both regular people and combat athletes. There is also the issue of judging and scoring. In orthodox combat sports, there are empirical and logical means of earning

points, which count towards the outcome of the eventual goal. Slap-fighting lacks this legitimacy as a sport, which underpins the argument of it just being a sheer display of brutality. One can only begin to wonder about the reasoning behind not only the participation but the existence of this sport, what point does it seek to prove? Should it be classed as a waste of time and resources due to its high risks, very little reward and near-zero entertainment value?

In conclusion, the question of whether slap-fight should be considered a sport is a complex and largely controversial one. While it may require skill and physical prowess, it also has the potential to promote violence and reinforce harmful stereotypes. Ultimately, it is up to society to determine whether the benefits of slap-fighting as a sport outweigh the potential harm. If it is to be considered a sport, it must be regulated and organized in a way that prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of participants.

PATIENT CHARTER GLOBAL AND DOMESTIC OUTLOOK

By Munachimso Ayo-Olagunju

A patient charter is a formal document typically prepared by the apex healthcare governing and regulatory body within a country – usually, the Federal Ministry of Health, that outlines the roles and responsibilities of both the providers and patients within the context of healthcare delivery. It enlists various rights and responsibilities, alongside various codes of practice, amongst which include, the right to; quality healthcare, be treated with respect and dignity, privacy and confidentiality, information about their healthcare, and participation in decisions about their healthcare. They are intended to ensure patients receive quality medical care while fostering a healthy provider-patient relationship

The origin of the patient charter can be traced back to the early 60s and 70s and is deeply rooted in the patient rights movement around that period, in response to the growing concerns about the quality of healthcare and the treatment of

patients. This movement birthed the creation and formalization of the Patients’ Bill of Rights in 1973 by the American Hospital Association. It highlighted the basic rights of hospital patients, including the right to; receive information about their diagnosis and treatment, refuse treatment, and privacy and confidentiality. Prior to this era, patients had little stake in their healthcare, and with limited access to information about their treatment and diagnosis, they were often subject to the whims of healthcare providers and institutions. Additionally, there were little or no formal means of addressing complaints or concerns and seeking redress. Overall, healthcare then was perceived as a paternalistic system with the doctor having totalitarian authority. Following the advent of the first patient charter in ’73, many other organizations and countries have gone on to develop their patient charter as part of other larger healthcare reforms. Today, patient charters

are intended to ensure patientcentred care, improve patientprovider communication and relationship and ensure patients receive the highest quality of care, upholding ethics and safety.

Various patient charters and guidelines exist all over the world covering various regions and jurisdictions. However, despite their jurisdictional variance, there exist similarities between them in the sense that they are all looking to achieve a shared objective of upholding access to the highest quality of care.

Examining a few of the various charters, we notice the following;

The European Patient charter emphasizes the importance of informed consent, patient safety, and patient empowerment, as well as the need for high-quality, evidence-based care.

The Patient Charter for the UK NHS emphasizes the importance of involving patients in decisions about their care and the need to provide clear information about treatments and procedures.

The WHO Patient Charter is designed to achieve the shared objective on a global scale. These principles include the right to; access healthcare services, be treated with respect and dignity, receive clear and accurate information about health issues, and participate in decisions about their care.

The US Patient’s Bill of Rights emphasizes patients’ right

to; receive clear information about their care, receive safe and effective treatment, and participate in decisions about their care. A recurrent theme amongst the reviewed patient charters is the importance of the inclusion of patients in their care process, providing clear information about treatment plans and ensuring patients are treated with respect and dignity.

Bringing this home, the Nigerian Patient Bill of Rights (PBoR) which was established in August 2018 is an aggregate of the existing rights of patients in the amended Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Consumer Protection Act, Child Rights Act, Freedom of Information Act, National Health Act and other regulations, and professional ethical codes such as the Hippocratic Oath. Below are

PBoR is an important step towards promoting patient-centred care...

the Nigerian PBoR:

1. Right to relevant information in a language and manner the patient understands, including diagnosis, treatment, other procedures and possible outcomes.

2. Right to timely access to detailed and accurate medical records and available services.

3. Right to transparent billing and full disclosure of any cost, including recommended treatment plans.

4. Right to privacy, and confidentiality of medical records.

5. Right to a clean, safe and secure healthcare environment.

6. Right to be treated with respect, regardless of gender, race, religion, ethnicity, allegations of crime, disability or economic circumstance.

7. Right to receive urgent, immediate and sufficient intervention and care, in the event of emergency.

8. Right to reasonable visitation in accordance with prevailing rules and regulations.

9. Right to decline care, subject to prevailing law and upon full disclosure of the consequences of such a decision.

10. Right to decline or consent to participation in medical

research, experimental procedures or clinical trials.

11. Right to quality care in accordance to prevailing standards.

12. Right to complain and express dissatisfaction regarding services rendered.

Our PBoR fairs well in comparison to other patient charters around the world, as it contains statutory provisions that align with the global objective of delivering the highest-quality care, protecting patient information and ensuring the patient is an active participant in their health. However, ours does have some quirks that reflect the uniqueness and specific

challenges of the Nigerian health system. For instance, our PBoR places a strong emphasis on the need to address issues related to cultural beliefs and practices that may impact patients’ health, while acknowledging the need to address issues related to poverty and lack of access to healthcare services in some areas of the country.

The Nigerian PBoR is not legally binding, hence it can only be enforced within the existing legal frameworks from which they were aggregated. The legal status of patient charters varies depending on country and context. For instance, in the United Kingdom, patient charters are backed by law, and healthcare providers have a legal duty to uphold the rights and responsibilities enshrined in them. In countries such as the United States, while they may not be legally binding in the same way, they can still be used as a basis for holding healthcare providers accountable for their actions and decisions.

It is worth noting that even in countries where patient charters are legally binding, there may be limitations to their enforceability, and patients may face challenges in seeking legal remedies for violations of their rights. Despite the importance of patient charters, as a country, we still experience several shortfalls and challenges in its implementation, some of which include; a lack of awareness, limited enforcement mechanisms, poor access to healthcare services, limited resources, and cultural and social factors.

In all, while our PBoR is an important step towards promoting patient-centred care, these challenges need to be addressed and it will require a concerted effort from policymakers, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to ensure that patients receive high-quality, equitable, and

HUMAN AUGMENTATION AND ITS MANY CHANGES

By Fiyinfoluwa Sanwo

What does body augmentation mean in the 21st century?

The technology industry has since the 21st century seen a shake-up that has moved it from being docile to being disruptive. Let alone the accounts of the serial expansions it has recorded in the last few years. The body augmentation industry by technology (wearable, virtual reality, augmented reality, exoskeleton, and intelligent virtual assistants), By Device (Body Worn and Non-Worn), By Application (Consumer and Enterprises), and By Industry vertical(Consumers, Medical, Healthcare, Industrial, Aerospace, Defense, Education, etc) has made significant progress in its application, especially in the field of medical care, military, national defense, and manufacturing.

According to Report Ocean, projections are that by 2027 the

body augmentation industry will be worth approximately 400 billion dollars. And the same report noted that the body augmentation market was worth almost 90 billion dollars in 2020.

With body augmentation the functions of the human body is improved or supported through the use of technologies, and as such productivity or capacity is enhanced.

A number of innovations and research with regards to technology have paved the way for the discovery of novel devices and implants that can be categorized as human augmentation. One of the many devices within this category is the Cochlear implants relating to sensory or hearing ability.

With the cochlear implant sound is turned into electrical sound and does only make sound louder like the regular hearing aid would do. Then there are orthotics or limb devices that can enhance motion and muscles capability. Other types of human augmentation may function with specific sorts of IT resources, such as big data assets.

While many of the new options for body augmentation seem to be empowering and offering improvements to human health and quality of life, some parts of the scientific community have expressed concerns about body augmentation tools built on powerful tech concepts like biotech and nanotechnology, which must be closely observed

for safety and long-term potential ramifications.

Nanotechnology, also known as nanotech is the engineering of functional systems at the molecular scale. In its original sense, nanotechnology refers to the projected ability to construct items from the bottom up, using techniques and tools being developed today to make complete, high-performance products.

Nanotechnology is already a huge industry with billions of dollars being spent on research and development worldwide. Nevertheless, there is still a great deal to learn about both the potential benefits and risks of

the technology. An area of concern is the effect that industrial-scale manufacturing and the use of nanomaterials would have on human health and the environment, as suggested by nanotoxicology research.

There is also the use of nanotechnology in the pharmaceutical industry and areas like medical imaging that could lead to notable new health hazards relating to its particle self-replication ability that could get out of control. The danger of contact with nanoparticles is not just speculation. As more research is undertaken, concerns increase. Some concerns are around; nanoparticles causing lung damage, and other particles have been shown to lead to brain damage. A German study found clear evidence that if discrete nanometer diameter particles were deposited in the nasal region (in rodents in this case), they completely circumvented the blood/brain barrier, and traveled up the olfactory nerves straight into the brain. I would say I would say human augmentation is a welcome development, especially in Africa. It is important to note that the risks and dangers associated with it should not be misinterpreted. They should not be seen as an exercise in despair, or an attempt to stop or oppose the process of human capacitation. Rather, noting these concerns is a way to ensure that necessary measures are taken

to mitigate envisaged risks; that promises and possibilities of this exciting project are harnessed as anticipated for Africa and the rest of theworld.

While Africans must be optimistic about the prospects of human augmentation and other emerging technological programs, there is a need to exercise caution, and temper optimism with realism. The technological differential has created a situation whereby these goods and benefits have largely been elusive, unharnessed, and underutilized. African countries have become a dumping ground of outdated and sometimes harmful technologies. Africans have been unable to access or optimally deployed existing technologies to tackle their everyday needs and challenges. Many Africans travel to Europe, America, India,and the Middle East to access medical care at exorbitant costs. And this trend is not changing for now. If these gaps are not narrowed or closed, Africa could be left further behind in the race for human augmentation and other futurist schemes.

In addition, existing technologies have yielded a situation where African countries are describedas developing, less developed, or underdeveloped. If the gap is not rectified, augmentation could become an identity political issue. Augmentation could become a way of defining and identifying humans. Africans might end up being designated as a continent of unaugmented, under-augmented, or less augmented humans as opposed to augmented humans in the west and the rest of the world.

NHIA 2022 & THE REALITIES OF UHC

By Munachimso Ayo-Olagunju

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) means every citizen has access to the full range of quality health services they need, when and where they need them, without financial hardship. In 2015, the Nations of the world recommitted to achieving UHC by 2030 as one of the pillars of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

However, the progress towards achieving this has been uneven across the board. In 2015 at least greater than half of the world’s

population was yet to have access to UHC, with middle-andlow income countries bearing the brunt of this. 23 of the 27 countries ranked as low-income countries, which are the poorest in the world, belong to Africa while 21 of the 55 lower-middle-income countries equally belong to Africa (World Population Review, 2022), with Africa being at the epicentre of this underdevelopment, it’s very easy to see how close to home this hits.

Since its establishment in 1999

and operationalization in 2005, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has been largely unsuccessful in meeting its aim of 40% Nationwide coverage by 2015, recording a measly 3% coverage which is largely comprised of Federal civil servants, despite provisions being made to target formal and informal sectors and the vulnerable.

The NHIS was internally and externally constrained by factors that greatly limited its capability to deliver on its mandate.

Experts and pundits alike argued in hindsight –which is always a perfect sight, that the scheme and program were bound for failure as it was even constrained from the getgo by the very act that established it. Hence, a brownfield-oriented approach was keenly required to address this, birthing the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act 2022. The NHIA Act is

a landmark piece of legislation that was enacted in May 2022 by President Muhammed Buhari, to repeal the earlier National Health Insurance Scheme Act of 1991. This updated piece of legislation –the New Act is a major step in the right direction towards achieving UHC and was welcomed by all well-meaning Nigerians, industry players, key stakeholders and development partners as it seeks to address the shortcomings of its predecessor – the Old Act in the following regards;

Firstly, Health Insurance is now compulsory for all Nigerian residents! Everyone living in Nigeria is now mandated by law to procure health insurance.

Prior to the enactment of this Act, health insurance participation was voluntary. The Act went further to clearly define residents to include; all employers and employees in

the public and private sectors with five staff and above, Informal sector employees, and All other residents in Nigeria. If a State setups a mandatory health insurance scheme, then residents in such states would be required to participate in the State’s health insurance scheme. However, nothing precludes residents of such states from participating in a complimentary private health insurance scheme.

The New Act introduces and stipulates the creation of vulnerable group funds, which would be used to cater to the subsidy and payment of health insurance coverage for the vulnerable in society, which are defined to include; children under 5, pregnant women, the aged, the physically and mentally challenged, the indigent and others as may be defined from time to time. The Vulnerable group funds are to be pooled from the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), health insurance levy, special intervention fund allocated by the government, interests from investments and others — grants, donations, gifts and contributions.

The Old Act used the NHIS as a vehicle to provide health insurance – to entitled insured persons and dependents. The New Act creates a regulatory body and umbrella for health insurance schemes and

more clearly defines the roles of the body as;

Promote, regulate and integrate health insurance schemes; Improve and harness private sector participation in the provision of health care services; and

Do such other things that will assist the authority in achieving UHC

With the New Act, there’s a clear delineation of the roles and responsibilities of NHIA as a regulator, promoter and enabler of UHC, creating room for other State Health Insurance Schemes.

The New Act introduces ThirdParty Administrators (TPAs), which have been rightly defined to include; Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Mutual Health Associations (MHAs) while curbing the powers of the HMOs by removing fund management from them and residing it with the State Health Insurance Schemes (SHIS). The Old Act empowered HMOs to collect and implement contributions for premiums, including payment for services to healthcare providers, and investment of pooled funds not in use while the New Act curbs their powers to the collection of contributions for premiums on behalf of SHIS where they are employed to do so but must

remit these pooled funds to the SHIS who will then manage, and or invest the funds through the NHIA. The New Act addresses a conflict of interest that existed in the Old Act, where the NHIS council included an HMO, which obstructed proper regulation and monitoring of HMOs, thus clipping the NHIS. The New Act doesn’t include representatives of HMOs as part of its governing council.

The New Act provides for contributions to a State Health Insurance Scheme fund payable by employers and employees in the formal sector, as well as individuals, families and groups within the informal sector, at a rate to be determined by each States council of Health Insurance Scheme. The three tiers of government, nongovernment and development partners are required to contribute to the vulnerable group. The Federal Government’s contribution

to the vulnerable group is to be drawn from the BHCPF. The New Act also introduces penalties and punishment upon conviction for failure to; pay contributions on time, remit payments’ after deductions from an employee’s salary, pay healthcare providers after receiving services from them and provide care to an enrollee.

The objectives of the New Act are laudable. However, it would take a significant amount of sensitization at all levels and most importantly compliance monitoring, to achieve Eldorado. 10 months later and there has been no noticeable outcome in the health insurance landscape nor the execution of salient aspects of the NHIA. Suffice to say, it has been business as usual. As of the time of this article, even the governing council established in section 4 of the New Act is yet to be constituted and this is the governing council tasked with

THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY ON BRAIN DRAIN IN THE HEALTHCARE SECTOR.

By Amilo UCHECHI Precious

The phenomenon of brain drain refers to the emigration of skilled professionals from their home country to another country, resulting in a loss of valuable human resources for the home country. The healthcare sector is particularly susceptible to brain drain, with nurses being among the most mobile group of healthcare professionals. This article will examine the impact of digital technology on brain drain in the health care sector, including the impact on healthcare delivery, the role of technology in mitigating brain drain, and the need for policy interventions.

Digital technology has facilitated

the migration of healthcare professionals by increasing their awareness of job opportunities in other countries. Healthcare professionals can easily access information on job vacancies, salaries, and working conditions in other countries through online job portals and social media platforms.

Additionally, digital technology has made it easier for healthcare professionals to obtain professional licenses and certifications required to work in other countries. The use of digital technology in the healthcare sector has also resulted in the development of telemedicine and telehealth services, which allow healthcare professionals to

provide medical services remotely. This has led to a significant increase in the demand for healthcare professionals in developed countries, leading to a brain drain in developing countries. Healthcare professionals are attracted to developed countries due to higher salaries, better working conditions, and the availability of advanced technology.

The role of nurses and other healthcare professionals in the healthcare system is crucial and can never be overemphasized because they offer a variety of services that are vital for providing high-quality patient care. Yet, there has been a major brain drain as a result of the global scarcity of nurses, with many nurses moving to industrialized nations in search of better working conditions, higher wages, and better career prospects. The healthcare industry is significantly impacted by this trend, as many nations(Nigeria included) are finding it difficult to keep up with the rising demand for healthcare services due to a lack of qualified nurses.

Digital technology has also made it possible to transfer medical expertise and knowledge from industrialized to developing nations. Local healthcare systems have grown as a result, and patient outcomes have also improved.

Yet, as healthcare experts leave developing nations like Nigeria to developed ones in search of better opportunities, this transfer of information and skills has also contributed to brain drain.

One of the technological implications of brain drain among nurses is the loss of skilled professionals who are familiar with the latest technologies and equipment used in healthcare. This loss can have a detrimental effect on the quality of patient care in the home countries, as the remaining nurses may not be adequately trained or familiar with the latest technologies. The shortage of nurses resulting from brain drain has significant technological implications for the healthcare sector. In particular, the use of technology can help mitigate the negative impact of brain drain by improving healthcare delivery and reducing the reliance on human resources. For example, telehealth technologies such as videoconferencing and remote monitoring can enable nurses to provide care to patients in remote locations, reducing the need for physical presence. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies can also be used to automate routine tasks, freeing up nurses to focus on more complex tasks that require human expertise.

Technology has an important role to play in mitigating brain drain among nurses. By improving working conditions and providing opportunities for career development, technology can help to retain nurses in their home countries. For example, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) can reduce administrative burdens and improve communication between healthcare providers, making it easier for nurses to do their jobs. The use of virtual reality (VR) and gamification techniques can also enhance training and development opportunities, providing nurses with opportunities to learn new skills and improve their clinical knowledge.

Moreover, with the rise of digital health technologies, nurses play a crucial role in implementing and utilizing these technologies. Brain drain can hinder the adoption of these technologies in developing countries, which can affect patient outcomes and the overall quality of care. The lack of skilled nurses may also lead to a shortage of nursing educators, which further compounds the problem by reducing the number of trained nurses available to work in the healthcare system.

Another technological implication of brain drain among nurses is

the impact on healthcare data management. Nurses play a crucial role in collecting and analyzing patient data, which is critical to improving patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. However, with brain drain, healthcare systems in developing countries may lack the expertise needed to effectively manage healthcare data. This lack of expertise can lead to inaccuracies in data collection and analysis, which can negatively affect patient care.

Policy interventions are also required to address the problem of brain drain among nurses because of its enormous ramifications. Governments ought to fund education and training initiatives that equip nurses to use technology in the delivery of healthcare. Incentives like tax breaks and money for research and development should be offered to encourage healthcare practitioners to use technology. Retaining nurses in their home nations can also be aided by policies that enhance working conditions and offer chances for career advancement. The government needs to pay attention to healthcare.

In conclusion, digital technology has significantly transformed the healthcare sector by improving healthcare delivery and patient

outcomes. However, it has also contributed to brain drain, which is a significant challenge faced by the healthcare sector. Healthcare professionals are attracted to developed countries due to better working conditions, higher salaries, and the availability of advanced technology. To mitigate the impact of brain drain, developing countries should invest in improving their healthcare systems by adopting digital technology, increasing salaries, and improving working conditions. Developed countries should also collaborate with developing countries to transfer knowledge and expertise to improve local healthcare systems. Brain drain among nurses has significant technological implications for the healthcare industry. It can result in a shortage of skilled professionals who are familiar with the latest technologies hindering equipment, hindering the adoption of digital

health technologies, and impacting healthcare data management. Addressing the issue of brain drain requires a multifaceted approach that includes improving working conditions and salaries for nurses, investing in healthcare infrastructure, and developing programs to train and retain skilled nurses. By addressing the brain drain, we can improve the quality of patient care and strengthen healthcare systems globally. I strongly believe that healthy citizens makes a healthy nation.

THE JAPA EFFECT:

A LOOMING CRISES FOR A NIGERIA’S HEALTHCARE SECTOR OR A BLESSING IN DISGUISE

By Adekunle Faderera

Although there has been constant use term of the word Japa it is imperative that we hear the true definition and what it means for us. Japa means to run. It conveys a situation when a Nigerian leaves their country, typically because of socio-economical, financial challenges and the lack of proper

infrastructure and resources. The rising question is whether the concept of JAPA is only prevalent on social media and not in real life. People are indeed leaving every day, and with the present state of the country, it is fair that people leave. The embassy has become one of the most crowded

places in Nigeria, and both young and old have become accustomed to the word. Most medical practitioners started with the intention of helping people, but with the lack of resources, they have come to a standstill. The clear lack of resources has become alarming, because how can they help people when there are no resources to do so? Another push factor is the fact that Nigeria has become unsafe coupled with no stable healthcare sector. If Nigeria wasn’t where it is, and another opportunity presented itself, some medical practitioners would still pursue their interests.

Nigeria as a country would remain regardless of who runs the country, some might say. Others would leave at the moment to come back later after gaining more experience. But to be honest, who would want to come back after experiencing a better life? From another point of view. Comfort means different things for different people, some medical practitioners don’t feel safe in Nigeria and that alone is an important factor for choosing not to stay in Nigeria. With the import of Medical practitioners leaving, the implication of this decision will lead to a lack of teachers to train and reproduce more doctors. The only steps that we can take to solve this issue are to improve the state of the hospitals, like adequate staffing, more compensation, provision of health insurance, improve the state of our hospitals, and Implement policies that can better the state of the patients and medical practitioners generally. We should also start from the primary healthcare sector, before moving to the secondary and tertiary sectors. The primary healthcare sector should deal with malaria, typhoid, and prenatal issues. There are also restrictions on what medical practitioners are allowed to and not allowed to do, which will cause a stunt in the growth of healthcare workers. There is a lack of adequate laws

that protect nurses from assault, there should be laws that protect and make health workers safe. Another bone of contention is whether the Japa system has a negative or positive effect in Nigeria. There is a negative impact because most vulnerable persons cannot be able to access proper healthcare. There is also no value for human life. Nigeria still ranks 9th among the most dangerous places to give birth in. The fact that the Nigerian government travels abroad to seek healthcare has sown low confidence in the minds of other Nigerians. With the lack of competent healthcare workers, there is more chance of quacks filling in the gaps. The healthcare sector also needs more funding, without this, it is impossible to provide quality healthcare. We should extend our focus on the effects of Japa to healthcare workers who move abroad, there is a surge of cultural exploits, it can foster a good relationship with the new country, and there is also a presence of knowledge advancement. Not to dwell on only the good, there is also the presence of racism and loneliness which stems from staying away from family.

After careful consideration, it is clear that there is no specific way to solve this issue, it needs to be targeted on all sides to see a clear change. There should be

more value attributed to human life, if our attitude concerning this can change, there will be a mind shift that can produce changes. There should be more funding supporting healthcare workers and their affairs. If government personnel can start using the healthcare centers we use, there will be a significant change in the healthcare infrastructure. After a statistical inquiry, there is an alarming amount of healthcare workers who have decided to leave Nigeria. The nurse to Citizen ratio is scary, there are about 125,000 nurses registered, which is little compared with the number of our populace. There is a need for collaboration among healthcare workers because this will help spark some interest in the general

public and generate enlightenment on what is happening in the healthcare system. If this happens, they can carry the public along and make changes.

In summary, since there is no proper infrastructure in Nigeria, these healthcare workers must leave to pursue their dreams and come back when they believe that they have acquired extensive knowledge. If there is educational reform, we can create more healthcare workers. In a year Nigeria loses like 1 billion Naira in medical tourism. There should be an online movement to create more awareness of what is going on in the healthcare system, maybe the government will do something about it

Health Technology and how it can improve physical activity in older adults

By Adeoti Jadesola

Physical activity has been defined by Carl Caspersen in 1985 as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that result in energy expenditure. This definition is quite popular as it gives a clear view of what physical activity entails. Therefore, any movement that causes energy use or loss such as walking, gardening, etc. can be categorized as physical activity. A large body of research studies has shown the numerous benefits of these physical activities. Some of these include the reduced occurrence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as stroke, hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, reduced stress and depressive symptoms, as well as enhanced mental health. Physical activity also helps to slow down the rate of decline in the function of body systems and improves the quality of life.

Bearing in mind all these benefits, World Health Organization has therefore recommended that Adults between the ages of 18 to 64 years are advised to engage in at

least 2 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise across the week or a total combination of both the moderate and vigorous intensity exercises while older adults who are 65 years and above have similar recommendations to that of the adults with the addition of different multi-component physical activity that focuses majorly on their functional balance and strength for a minimum of 3 days per week at moderate or vigorous intensity depending on their capabilities. It is also important to note that no matter how little physical activity you are involved in it is better than being physically inactive or having a sedentary lifestyle.

Despite the benefits and recommendations of physical activity, there is still a reduced level of participation in the general population more so in older adults. This has been attributed to a lot of barriers which can be physical (injury or illness), psychological

(lack of motivation and low self-efficacy), responsibilityrelated (caregiving duties, jobs), environmental barriers, etc.

Health technology has been one of the interventions that help to tackle some of these barriers to physical activity. Although a sedentary lifestyle can be attributed to technology, health technology has provided different strategies such as fitness technology that not only promote physical activity but helps to keep track of your progress as you engage in more physical activity, therefore, countering this negative effect that it brings. Health technology is an intervention that was developed to solve health problems and improve the quality of life which encompasses digital products and services. Some of these digital products that measure, improve, and track physical activity include; pedometers, accelerometers, heart rate monitors, Smart fabric and sensor technology, Interactive video games, Fitness trackers such as Fitbit, different smartphone applications which provides virtual reality coaching services to motivate an increase in physical activity, etc.

All these products have been reported by different studies to not only increase physical activity but also lead to weight loss and

decrease in body mass, reduce health risk behavior in inactive individuals, and decrease systolic blood pressure. Other products like interactive video games have not only improved their level of physical activity but have also helped build up their motivation levels seeing that they can decide to either participate with other people from different places across the world or do it on their own since the majority of these devices send reminders, text messages, and congratulatory messages when a goal has been attained to encourage them. All these overall increases their performance level. A lot of these health devices also help to track your participation levels and how much you are allowed to engage in while monitoring the older adults’ vitals in case of any emergencies making physical activity safer for them.

Ultimately, health technology has helped to promote functional independence, prevent falls, and improve balance confidence and general health which increases physical activity levels of older adults. Physical activity has been defined by Carl Caspersen in 1985 as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that result in energy expenditure. This definition is quite popular as it gives a clear view of what physical activity

entails. Therefore, any movement that causes energy use or loss such as walking, gardening, etc. can be categorized as physical activity. A large body of research studies has shown the numerous benefits of these physical activities. Some of these include the reduced occurrence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as stroke, hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, reduced stress and depressive symptoms, as well as enhanced mental health. Physical activity also helps to slow down the rate of decline in the function of body systems and improves the quality of life.

Bearing in mind all these benefits, World Health Organization has therefore recommended that Adults between the ages of 18 to 64 years are advised to engage in at least 2 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise across the week or a total combination of both the moderate and vigorous intensity exercises while older adults who are 65 years and above have similar recommendations to that of the adults with the addition of different multi-component physical activity that focuses majorly on their functional balance and strength for a minimum of 3 days per week at moderate or vigorous intensity

depending on their capabilities. It is also important to note that no matter how little physical activity you are involved in it is better than being physically inactive or having a sedentary lifestyle.

Despite the benefits and recommendations of physical activity, there is still a reduced level of participation in the general population more so in older adults. This has been attributed to a lot of barriers which can be physical (injury or illness), psychological (lack of motivation and low self-efficacy), responsibilityrelated (caregiving duties, jobs), environmental barriers, etc.

Health technology has been one of the interventions that help to tackle some of these barriers to physical activity. Although a sedentary lifestyle can be attributed to technology, health technology has provided different strategies such as fitness technology that not only promote physical activity but helps to keep track of your progress as you engage in more physical activity, therefore, countering this negative effect that it brings. Health technology is an intervention that was developed to solve health problems and improve the quality of life which encompasses digital products and services. Some of these digital products that measure, improve,

and track physical activity include; pedometers, accelerometers, heart rate monitors, Smart fabric and sensor technology, Interactive video games, Fitness trackers such as Fitbit, different smartphone applications which provides virtual reality coaching services to motivate an increase in physical activity, etc.

All these products have been reported by different studies to not only increase physical activity but also lead to weight loss and decrease in body mass, reduce health risk behavior in inactive individuals, and decrease systolic blood pressure. Other products like interactive video games have not only improved their level of physical activity but have also helped build up their motivation levels seeing that they can decide to either participate with other

people from different places across the world or do it on their own since the majority of these devices send reminders, text messages, and congratulatory messages when a goal has been attained to encourage them.

All these overall increases their performance level. A lot of these health devices also help to track your participation levels and how much you are allowed to engage in while monitoring the older adults’ vitals in case of any emergencies making physical activity safer for them.

Ultimately, health technology has helped to promote functional independence, prevent falls, and improve balance confidence and general health which increases physical activity levels of older adults.

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What experts and athletes really have to say about Power Slap League (Hint: it’s not great) by Dannielle Beardsley

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Infusion Lawyers. (2018, August 5). Download Nigeria’s Patients’ Bill of Rights (PBoR)- Long and Short Versions. Infusion Lawyers. https://infusionlawyers.com/download-nigerias-patients-bill-of-rights-pborlong-and-short-versions/

Jackson, Etti & Edu. (2018). THE INTRODUCTION OF PATIENT’S BILL OF RIGHTS BY THE CONSUMER PROTECTION COUNCIL: IMPACT ON THE ENFORCEMENT OF PATIENT’S RIGHTS UNDER THE NIGERIAN HEALTHCARE SYSTEM (p. 2). https://jee.africa/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/ Health-Pharma-Patient%E2%80%99s-Bill-of-Rights2.pdf

Pharm Access Foundation. (2023). Nigerian Health Sector Market Study Report. In Pharm Access Foundation (p. 9). https://www.pharmaccess.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Nigeria-Healthcare-Market-Study-10-Case-StudiesProviders-link_Final-Report_2022.docx.pdf

The New Practice. (2022, August 9). Highlights of the NHIA Act 2022. Business Day, 13. https://tnp.com. ng/assets/images/uploads/HIGHLIGHTS-OF-THE-NHIA-ACT-2022.pdf

Watch, N. H. (2022, May 25). From A Scheme to an Authority - 5 Things You Need to Know About the New NHIA Act. Nigeria Health Watch. https://articles.nigeriahealthwatch.com/from-a-scheme-to-an-authority5-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-new-nhia-act/

World Population Review. (2022). Poorest Countries In Africa 2020. Worldpopulationreview.com. https:// worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/poorest-countries-in-africa