Introduction
eClat, a leading health-tech subsidiary of Nigerian payment giant Interswitch, has entered into a significant partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Health. This collaboration aims to launch the Smart Health Information Platform (SHIP), a cloud-based system designed to manage and transmit data for all state-owned healthcare facilities. This marks eClat's second major government partnership within a year.
Enhancing Healthcare Data Management
The Lagos State government is optimistic that the new platform will significantly improve the efficiency of the state's health ministry and resource management. By centralizing data, the ministry can analyze health trends and behaviors more effectively.
“When the data are in one place, we can then use that data and collect trends on the health-seeking behaviour of Lagosians,” said Akin Abayomi, the Health Commissioner.
Signing of the Partnership
On June 18, during a signing ceremony involving the Office of Public Private Partnership and the Digital Health Platform Limited, the health commissioner highlighted the importance of this initiative. This partnership will digitize the existing paper-based data management system in all state-owned hospitals, placing a vast amount of data from Nigeria’s largest city under eClat's control.
General hospitals in Lagos handle data from over 7 million people, while more than 256 public healthcare centers contribute significantly to this data pool. This initiative will drastically improve the management and utilization of this data.
Expanding eClat’s Reach
This is eClat's second government partnership since its acquisition by Interswitch, aimed at extending payment services into the healthcare sector. In May 2023, eClat collaborated with the Ogun State government to launch eClinic, a core service for digitizing data management in a state teaching hospital.
Long-Term Goals and Benefits
eClat’s long-term vision includes developing an API-enabled digital platform to facilitate collaboration and secure data sharing across the health ecosystem. This integration will enhance the overall healthcare service delivery.
Boosting Digital Payment Adoption
The partnership will also streamline digital bill payments in hospitals, aligning with Interswitch’s broader objective of increasing digital payment adoption in Nigeria’s predominantly cash-based economy.
“There is tremendous value, financial and otherwise, locked up in sectors and areas where government is a key player, particularly in the aspects of healthcare, transportation, and other basic social services,” said Mitchell Elegbe, Founder and CEO of Interswitch.
Historical Context and Future Projections
Before its acquisition by Interswitch, eClat’s electronic health record platform was already in use in over 250 public and private healthcare facilities in Nigeria. The new government partnership is expected to significantly increase this number.
Strategic Acquisition
Interswitch's acquisition of eClat in 2019 was driven by a strategic intent to position itself as a leading health-tech solution and payments provider in the healthcare industry. This partnership validates that strategic move, providing direct benefits to Interswitch's payment business.
