Just Published: Leveraging AI for Research on Gender-Equitable Healthcare Accessibility in Nigeria

KANO, Nigeria - Feb. 12, 2024 - PRLog -- Nivi, in collaboration with the University of Lagos and supported by USAID and DAI Global under the Digital Frontiers Equitable AI initiative, is proud to announce the publication of a new research paper in the peer reviewed journal Data in Brief. Co-authored by Nivi's CTO, David Tresner-Kirsch, and University of Lagos academics Chika Yinka-Banjo, Mary Akinyemi, and Olasupo Ajayi, the study presents unique insights from deploying multi-lingual AI to assess gender-equitable healthcare utilization in northern Nigeria.

Titled "Data on Gender-Equitable Healthcare Accessibility in Northern Nigeria", the paper offers a comprehensive analysis based on data collected from approximately 500 locations across Northern Nigeria. Using askNivi on WhatsApp to recruit respondents, questionnaires in English and Hausa were answered by 4700 participants. This methodological choice to use WhatsApp not only surpassed traditional barriers of communication but also ensured the safe and private participation of women, a demographic marginalized in the region.

The research utilized the askNivi platform to reach and engage isolated and disenfranchised populations in northern Nigeria, for public health insights. "The remarkable turnout of women in this survey, despite societal constraints, underscores the critical role of digital platforms like askNivi in creating safe spaces for marginalized voices," says David Tresner-Kirsch. "Our findings not only shed light on existing disparities but also pave the way for leveraging technology to reach broader populations for health related awareness, drive referrals into the healthcare system, and facilitate behavior change to drive action for better health, setting a new benchmark for public health initiatives".

For the full paper, please visit the ungated copy on ScienceDirect (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S235234...).

About Nivi:
Nivi is a digital health company committed to improving access to quality healthcare through technology. By harnessing the power of data and innovative tools like askNivi, the company strives to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed health decisions. Nivi works with healthcare system actors (healthcare providers, promoters, payers and manufacturers) to improve accessibility and promote healthcare equity amongst the Indian, Kenyan and Nigerian population.

About the University of Lagos:
The University of Lagos, Nigeria, is a leading institution dedicated to research and education in various fields, including healthcare. Through partnerships like this, the university aims to contribute to societal improvement and the well-being of communities across Nigeria, Africa, and the world.