EKPOMA REVIEW

Communication media has long played a crucial role in the facilitation of various dimensions of community development. The emergence of social media and artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly enhanced these functions by introducing instantaneity and interactivity. Recognising healthcare delivery as a fundamental component of sustainable development, the United Nations ranks it fifth among the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Thus, this study explores the potential of social media and AI in improving healthcare accessibility for the population of Benue State, where insecurity severely disrupts socio-economic activities and limits access to medical services. The persistent threat to safety, particularly in rural areas, instils fear and disrupts movements, preventing individuals from seeking medical care or obtaining reliable health information. The absence of timely intervention exacerbates health risks and loss. Grounded in the diffusion of innovation theory, this paper seeks to identify existing communication channels between healthcare providers and communities and assess the utilisation of digital media tools among them. The study employs a survey designed with a questionnaire and observation as instruments for data collection. The quantitative and qualitative data analyses methods are employed. Findings reveal that the use of digital medical devices by health facilities is quite minimal due to media knowledge deficiency by healthcare personnel and shortage of resources. The few available tools are not necessarily leveraged for healthcare communication to improve access. It therefore recommends, among others, strategies for optimising digital communication technologies to enhance healthcare access, such as the provision of accessible emergency phone numbers and media literacy.

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