Intel Recognised for its leadership in telemedicine technology

Johannesburg, 20 January 2009: Recognised for its leadership in telemedicine technology, Intel Corporation was recently presented the ‘Nigerian Telemedicine Entrepreneurial Company Award' by Frost & Sullivan's, one of Africa's leading Excellence Awards platform.

The accolades were given to companies demonstrating market leadership in the fields of healthcare, industrial automation and ICT, from Kenya, Zambia, Nigeria, South Africa and the whole of sub-Saharan Africa. Intel Corporation received the accolade due to their ongoing efforts to improve healthcare in Nigeria through the implementation of advanced technological solutions which connect remote villages to established hospitals.

Commenting on the award, David Ibhawoh, Business Development Manager for Intel Nigeria stated: “Developments in the telemedicine field are vital to help provide improved medical care for those living in rural areas and to ensure doctors are able to perform more complex medical procedures. Africa is a highly populated landmass, with many people unable to access basic medical care. By improving Africa's healthcare system through remote access vehicles and technology, governments will be able to provide essential medical advice to those in need.”
Almost eighteen months ago, Intel launched a pilot program to provide essential platforms for the expansion of telemedicine and other e-health initiatives in Nigeria, such as video-conferencing and remote diagnostic equipment through Intel's National Hospital in Abuja to the national Medical Centre, Bida.

“Since the launch our program, thousands of Nigerian citizens have benefited from invaluable access to healthcare services,” added Ibhawoh. “Telemedicine has the potential to become a platform to help alleviate Africa's healthcare issues and Intel will continue to work with governments and healthcare professionals to further develop in this field.” In subsequent months Intel intends to work with stakeholders in the health sector to better improve health care delivery through the use of technology with a key role in empowering doctors, nurses and other health sector working to own and better use technology.