INTRODUCTION:
Globally, studies have shown that technology integration and capacity building improve health outcomes by enhancing operational efficiency and the quality of care, which is vital for sustainable development.1-6 To advance clinical operations as part of efforts to improve health outcomes at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Medical Centre, strategic interventions, including the digitalisation of laboratory services7, targeted capacity-building programs for healthcare workers, and other innovative strategies, were implemented. This study examined the impact of the digitalisation of laboratory services, capacity building of healthcare workers, and other innovative strategies on healthcare outcomes in the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Medical Centre.

METHODS:
Mixed-methods research was conducted, using cross-sectional surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), and in-depth interviews (IDIs) with the healthcare workers at the medical centre.

RESULTS:
Findings showed that digitalisation of laboratory services and training of healthcare workers reduced human errors, accelerated diagnostic turnaround times (TATs), enhanced precision and accuracy, standardised procedures and lab results, and promoted data-driven clinical decision-making, positively impacting the quality of care and health outcomes. Associated challenges, including delayed adaptation by healthcare workers to new digital infrastructures and resistance to changes in operational procedures8,9, were also observed.

CONCLUSIONS:
In this case study, the incorporation of technology - digitalisation of laboratory services, and the training of healthcare workers significantly enhanced the quality of care and health outcomes at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Medical Centre. Ongoing training and supportive oversight are vital for addressing the associated challenges10.