Quality improvement strategies and service effectiveness in healthcare delivery system: The place of health data quality improvement process in Nigeria

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Quality improvement (QI) remains central to strengthening health systems globally. It provides a structured approach for enhancing clinical processes, workforce performance and system-wide outputs. In Nigeria, health service effectiveness continues to be influenced by system fragmentation, limited resources and inconsistent adherence to evidence-based practices. Design/Methods: This review sought to map existing evidence on how quality improvement strategies influenced service effectiveness in the Nigerian healthcare system, with a specific focus on health data quality improvement processes. Databases searched include Google Scholar, Pubmed, NJOL, AJOL and ResearchGate for relevant studies with no language restrictions. Works included are empirical studies, programme evaluations, policy documents and grey literature focusing on QI, healthcare quality, health services effectiveness or health data quality improvement in Nigeria. Results A cornerstone of any QI effort is the availability of accurate, accessible, comprehensive, timely and consistent health data. Health data quality forms the foundation for planning, monitoring, evaluation and performance management. It is however discernible that the Nigeria’s health data management systems face recurring challenges, including delayed reporting, incomplete documentation and variable EMR adoption. Conclusion: The continuous desire for high quality healthcare from health service consumers, combined with the system’s push for effective and efficient resource application, has placed much pressure on healthcare professionals, stakeholders and organizations. Devising all humanly possible means, health data quality improvement processes should be upheld.