Cyber Security and Data Expert, Samuel Kwame Adomako, has expressed serious concerns about the government’s approach to the Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS) issue.
He said, the Health Minister’s decision to award the contract for the new Ghana Health Information Management System (GHIMS) to a single vendor poses a significant risk to the country’s health data.
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, recently accused the managers of LHIMS of underperformance and blackmail, citing the vendor’s refusal to hand over administrative access and health data to the country.
The Minister was of the view that the vendor’s actions led to widespread disruptions in the national health data system.
The sector minister, therefore, mentioned the introduction of a new GHIMS platform, designed to manage health information across the country and provide real-time access to patient records nationwide.
Speaking on Ghanakoma morning show on Akoma 87.9fm in Kumasi with Sir John on November 5, Mr. Adomako claimed that the Health Minister’s approach is misguided and may lead to a monopoly in the health data sector.
He expressed skepticism about the Minister’s assurance that the GHIMS would be state-managed, unlike the LHIMS which was handled by outsiders. In his opinion, this change in management approach wouldn’t necessarily address the underlying issues.
He argues that awarding the contract to a single vendor, whether outsider or insider could compromise the security and integrity of Ghana’s health data.
Adomako appealed for a more inclusive approach, recommending that Ghanaian IT companies and experts be involved in the process and receive a portion of the contract.
He pointed out that, the health database should be open for every hospital to purchase its own database apps in order to end the monopoly.
This approach would promote competition, flexibility, and innovation in the health data management sector.
He touched on some of the negative impacts that the country may face if it continues to depend on one vendor.
He said that depending on a single vendor could stifle competition and innovation in the health data management sector.
To him, relying on one vendor increases vulnerability to system failures or disruptions, as there may be limited alternatives or support.
He observed that a single vendor might limit the flexibility and scalability of the health information system, making it harder to adapt to changing needs.
As the government moves forward with the implementation of GHIMS, it remains to be seen whether the concerns raised by Adomako and other experts will be addressed.
He urged the state to adhere to his issues raised to help transform the health sector.
