ANSACA Launches Telehealth Platform to Make HIV Information and Care More Accessible
By Chibuzo Obidike | Ichie Times
Residents of Anambra State can now access confidential HIV information, counselling and referrals through a new telehealth service launched by the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency, ANSACA.
The platform, unveiled alongside the agency’s newsletter, is designed to connect residents with HIV related information and healthcare services, including testing, treatment, PrEP, PEP and guidance on preventing stigma and discrimination.
Speaking at the launch, the Commissioner for Information and Value Reorientation, Dr Law Mefor, commended ANSACA for using digital technology to improve access to healthcare. He said the service would complement the state’s telemedicine programme and encourage more residents to go for early HIV testing.
The Executive Director and Project Manager of ANSACA, Dr Nkem Okeke, disclosed that more than 2,500 people had been tested for HIV through community outreaches, motor parks, workplaces and tertiary institutions since April 2026.
Dr Okeke said about 176 primary healthcare centres offering free HIV services had been linked to the telehealth platform. She explained that callers would receive confidential guidance and be referred to appropriate facilities for testing, treatment and follow up.
The keynote speaker, Professor Ifeoma Njelita, called for stronger local ownership of the HIV response, stressing that digital innovation must remain people centred and protect privacy, consent and data security.
She also proposed an “Anambra Digital HIV Connect” initiative built around digital information, telehealth, testing, referrals, treatment adherence and data intelligence.
The event featured the unveiling of the newsletter, a drama presentation and goodwill messages from stakeholders who pledged continued support for HIV awareness, prevention and access to care across the state.
ANSACA said the initiative supports Anambra’s goal of achieving zero new HIV infections, zero AIDS related deaths, and zero stigma and discrimination by 2030.
