The healthcare AI market is forecasted to reach $102.7 billion by 2028, urging Nigeria to shift from importing services to developing local AI diagnostics. While historical healthcare practices evolved from traditional methods to structured systems, Nigeria lags internationally in best practices. Embracing AI could enhance diagnostics, from predictive tools to mobile health technologies. Government and private sector investment is crucial to modernize infrastructure, train professionals, and address data management, while entrepreneurs can leverage these advancements for profit and innovation.
The rapid expansion of the healthcare AI market is anticipated to reach $102.7 billion by 2028, with significant advancements in medical diagnostics at the forefront. Nigeria is at a crossroads—should it rely on imported diagnostic services or develop its own AI-powered solutions? The country’s healthcare origins were rooted in traditional methods before Western practices introduced structured healthcare. Today, while diagnostic labs abound, Nigeria remains far from best global practices and must adopt AI technologies urgently.
By 2025, diagnostic processes that rely purely on human interpretation will be considered obsolete. Countries leading in the healthcare field are already utilizing AI technology to enhance diagnostics, with tools like DeepMind and PathAI making significant strides in imaging and predictive diagnostics. AI’s capacity to analyze medical images and predict diseases even before symptoms appear underscores the urgency for Nigeria to embrace these innovations.
The prospect of point-of-care AI diagnostics presents an opportunity to revolutionize healthcare in Nigeria. Devices capable of conducting tests at the patient’s side, especially in remote areas, are becoming a reality globally. Future advancements point toward fully automated diagnostic labs, AI-assisted medical professionals, mobile diagnostics, and personalized treatments that align with individual biological profiles.
As AI’s market potential includes a projected contribution of $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, Nigeria must seize this opportunity to avoid being left behind. Presently, however, Nigeria’s infrastructure for healthcare is ill-equipped for an AI transition, hindered by unreliable power supply and outdated technology.
To adapt to this impending change, Nigeria needs to invest in modern healthcare frameworks that support AI implementation. This includes enhancing education for healthcare professionals on AI literacy and addressing data management and privacy concerns. The role of entrepreneurs is crucial in fostering innovation within this landscape, leading to the establishment of AI diagnostics startups and health-tech devices tailored to Nigeria’s unique needs.
In conclusion, the integration of AI in Nigerian healthcare, specifically in diagnostics, is essential for reducing errors and enhancing healthcare access. Entrepreneurs and investors are positioned to benefit from this evolution by capitalizing on emerging opportunities in health-tech. The time for Nigeria to initiate this diagnostic revolution is now, as delay may compromise both health outcomes and economic potential.
Nigeria’s healthcare system stands on the brink of transformative change through the adoption of AI in diagnostics. This integration is not only vital for reducing healthcare errors and expenses but also presents significant business opportunities for entrepreneurs. The nation must invest in infrastructure, training, and regulatory frameworks to harness AI’s full potential in health-tech. Immediate action is paramount to ensure Nigeria does not fall behind in global healthcare advancements.
Original Source: businessday.ng
