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Dr. Ibukun Abejirinde’s journey into the realm of digital health is a fascinating blend of curiosity, and a deep commitment to maternal and child health. Originally from Nigeria, her diverse background spans clinical medicine and community health psychology, and she has lived and studied in multiple countries, including Ukraine, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Her passion for global health, particularly in lower-middle-income countries, was ignited when she received an Erasmus Mundus joint doctorate fellowship for her PhD. This opportunity allowed her to explore digital technology to enhance maternal healthcare delivery in rural sub-Saharan Africa. Through this work, Dr. Abejirinde not only discovered the vast potential of digital health in bridging healthcare gaps but also became keenly aware of the inequities that persist, even in the face of innovation. Today, her research continues to explore these intersections, focusing on health equity and the critical question of who might be left behind with advancements in digital health.
Passion for Community-Driven Change
As a scientist in learning health systems, she thrives on asking critical, often challenging questions that push conventional thought. From being a child of curiosity, she “loves to ask questions with purpose” and this has evolved into the cornerstone of her career. In her role, these questions are not only welcomed but are seen as essential to fostering a learning environment within her organization and the broader healthcare sector.
Beyond her intellectual pursuits, Dr. Abejirinde finds profound inspiration in the people she works with — brilliant, compassionate individuals who share her commitment to positively impact the world through research and innovation. However, her passion extends beyond collaboration; she is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of healthcare leaders and researchers.
In her current role at the Institute for Better Health within Trillium Health Partners, Dr. Abejirinde focuses on operationalizing equity within the learning health systems framework. She is particularly passionate about understanding how equity can both drive and be an outcome of this model. Her belief in the transformative power of communities, especially aiding the most vulnerable, shapes much of her work. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored for her the crucial role that community organizations and members play in enacting meaningful change in healthcare. Dr. Abejirinde is deeply motivated to explore the knowledge systems within these communities and to understand how institutions can better partner with them to create more equitable and effective healthcare practices and policies.
Overcoming Barriers Through Digital Health
Dr. Ibukun Abejirinde’s research highlights the significant challenges that newcomers face in accessing healthcare in Canada. While healthcare may not be an immediate priority for many newcomers, social determinants of health, including appropriate housing and employment, can lead to serious health issues if unmet. These challenges are not just healthcare issues but are deeply intertwined with broader social factors that require a holistic approach to be effectively addressed.
A key barrier Dr. Abejirindeidentifies through her applied research is the lack of knowledge Newcomers have about navigating the Canadian healthcare system. Newcomers often struggle to understand where to go for care, when to seek it, and who is eligible for certain services. This confusion, coupled with experiences of systemic discrimination, can erode trust in the healthcare system. This makes it even more difficult for newcomers to access the care they need.
Dr. Abejirinde sees a role for digital health technologies in addressing these challenges, but she emphasizes that technology should augment and assist rather than replace existing systems. Digital tools can provide essential information, reduce administrative burdens, and assist with navigation, but they must be designed with equity in mind. Simple, user-friendly technology that is accessible to the most marginalized groups can play a crucial role in improving healthcare access for newcomers, but it must work alongside compassionate, human-centered care to be truly effective.
Navigating the Future of Digital Health and Health Equity
Artificial intelligence (AI) is widely regarded as a transformative force in healthcare, and Dr. Ibukun Abejirinde views it as a potential game changer for the sector. AI holds the promise of enhancing healthcare delivery and expanding what can be achieved within the system. However, she also raises concerns about the biases embedded in AI technologies, which could exacerbate existing inequalities rather than resolve them. Dr. Abejirinde argues that while AI may offer tools and support, true progress in health equity will ultimately depend on people, structures, and institutions.
The rapid pace of AI development presents a challenge, with many struggling to grasp its implications and limitations. Dr. Abejirinde compares this rapid advancement to a bullet train that needs well-planned infrastructure, including digital literacy, supportive infrastructure, and multilingual capabilities. Ensuring that technology is accessible and supportive, rather than overwhelming or alienating, is crucial. There is also a need to maintain compassion at the core of healthcare, as AI cannot replicate and replace the solicitude and humanity that is essential for truly equitable care.
In summary, while AI has the potential to significantly impact the healthcare landscape, Dr. Abejirinde emphasizes that its benefits will be realized only if the technology is implemented thoughtfully and inclusively. Ensuring that technological advancements enhance rather than replace human compassion is vital for achieving true health equity.
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