P-018 Cross-disciplinary workflows Poster

Implementation outcomes of digital and artificial intelligence technologies in diagnostic laboratories in Anambra State, Nigeria

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Authors

C.U. Obi presenting

1Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Anambra State

#0
A.C. Ihim

Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Anambra State

#1
A.F. Ehiaghe

1Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Anambra State

#2
I.V. Obi

University on the Niger, Anambra State

#3
I.N. Agbiogwu

Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State Nigeria

#4
O.C. Ugwunna

Department of Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Ituku-Ozalla

#5
D. Ezeobi

college of Health Obosi

#6
I.J. Onuora

Medical Laboratory science Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Igbariam

#7
C.E. Ejike

4Medical Laboratory science Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Igbariam

#8
V.C. Odo

Medical Laboratory Science Department, Tanisan University

#9
V.C. Odo

Medical Laboratory Science Department, Tanisan University

#10
B. Ben-Anioke

Department of Haematology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Ituku-Ozalla’

#11

Abstract

The rapid advancement of digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming diagnostic laboratory practice worldwide, including in Anambra State, Nigeria. This study evaluates the implementation outcomes of digital and AI technologies in diagnostic laboratories, focusing on availability, impact, challenges, and sustainability in a resource-limited setting. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among laboratory professionals, pathologists, information technology specialists, and healthcare administrators. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing technology availability, implementation processes, outcomes, barriers, and ethical concerns. Findings show high availability of core digital systems such as automated analyzers (88.0%), Laboratory Information Systems (84.0%), and Electronic Medical Records (75.3%). However, AI-assisted diagnostic systems remain limited (36.0%). Implementation outcomes demonstrated significant improvements, including workflow efficiency (84.6%), reduced turnaround time (84.0%), improved diagnostic accuracy (82.7%), enhanced data management (82.7%), reduced human error (82.7%), and increased productivity (83.4%). Despite these benefits, major challenges persist, including inadequate funding (78.7%), poor electricity supply (70.7%), poor internet connectivity (67.3%), limited technical expertise (64.7%), and cybersecurity concerns (49.3%). Ethical issues such as patient privacy (81.3%), lack of regulatory frameworks (78.7%), and data security risks were also prominent. The study concludes that while digital and AI technologies significantly improve laboratory performance in Anambra State, their full potential is limited by infrastructural, technical, and regulatory constraints. Strengthening infrastructure, workforce capacity, cybersecurity systems, and policy frameworks is essential for sustainable implementation.