Best Guide to Setting Up a Telemedicine Practice as a Doctor in Nigeria 2026

Setting Up a Telemedicine Practice in Nigeria: Your Complete 2026 Guide

Starting a telemedicine practice in Nigeria is one of the most innovative and flexible ways for doctors to deliver healthcare services. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and Nigerian patients and doctors have embraced virtual consultations as a convenient, efficient way to access and provide medical care.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to establish a successful telemedicine practice—from regulatory requirements and technology setup to legal considerations, billing, and modern telehealth practice management software.

Why Start a Telemedicine Practice in Nigeria?

The telemedicine sector in Nigeria offers unique opportunities for medical professionals:

• Growing Acceptance: Patients increasingly comfortable with virtual consultations
• Geographic Reach: Serve patients across Nigeria and even internationally
• Lower Overhead: Minimal physical infrastructure compared to traditional clinics
• Flexible Schedule: Work from anywhere with internet connection
• Underserved Areas: Reach patients in rural areas with limited healthcare access
• Specialist Access: Provide specialist consultations to patients nationwide
• Supplementary Income: Add telemedicine to existing practice or work part-time
• Pandemic-Proof: Business continuity during health crises or lockdowns
• Technology Adoption: Increasing smartphone and internet penetration in Nigeria

Market Opportunity: Nigeria's telemedicine market is valued at over ₦15 billion annually and growing at 25-35% per year, making it one of the fastest-growing healthcare segments.

Understanding Telemedicine Practice Models in Nigeria

Before starting, decide which telemedicine model suits your goals and resources:

Solo Virtual Practice

• Independent telemedicine practice
• Direct-to-patient consultations
• Full control over schedule and pricing
• Startup cost: ₦500,000 - ₦2 million

Hybrid Practice

• Combine physical clinic with telemedicine
• Offer both in-person and virtual consultations
• Expand reach while maintaining physical presence
• Startup cost: ₦1 million - ₦3 million (telemedicine component)

Specialist Telemedicine Consultation

• Provide specialist opinions to other doctors or patients
• Second opinions, complex case reviews
• Premium pricing
• Startup cost: ₦800,000 - ₦2.5 million

Corporate Telemedicine

• Contract with companies to provide employee telehealth
• Steady patient volume and income
• B2B model
• Startup cost: ₦1 million - ₦3 million

Platform-Based Practice

• Join existing telemedicine platforms (e.g., Helium Health, mDoc, Kangpe)
• Lower startup costs, platform handles technology
• Revenue sharing model
• Startup cost: ₦200,000 - ₦800,000

Telemedicine Clinic/Group Practice

• Multiple doctors offering virtual consultations
• Broader service coverage and hours
• Shared infrastructure costs
• Startup cost: ₦2 million - ₦6 million

This guide focuses on solo and hybrid telemedicine practices.

Step 1: Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Personal Requirements

To practice telemedicine in Nigeria, you must:

• Be a registered medical practitioner with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN)
• Have current practicing license
• Have completed NYSC
• Have at least 2-3 years clinical experience (recommended)
• Be of good character with no disciplinary issues

Important: You can only provide telemedicine services within your scope of practice and specialty.

MDCN Telemedicine Guidelines

The MDCN has issued guidelines for telemedicine practice in Nigeria. Key requirements include:

1. Doctor-Patient Relationship:

• Establish proper doctor-patient relationship
• Verify patient identity
• Obtain informed consent for telemedicine consultation
• Document all consultations thoroughly

2. Standard of Care:

• Maintain same standard of care as in-person consultations
• Only treat conditions suitable for telemedicine
• Know when to refer for in-person evaluation
• Have emergency protocols in place

3. Prescribing Medications:

• Can prescribe medications via telemedicine
• Must follow standard prescribing guidelines
• Avoid prescribing controlled substances without in-person evaluation
• Use secure electronic prescriptions

4. Medical Records:

• Maintain complete medical records
• Ensure data privacy and security
• Comply with data protection regulations
• Keep records for required retention period

5. Professional Liability:

• Maintain professional indemnity insurance
• Clearly communicate limitations of telemedicine
• Document patient consent and understanding

Business Registration

1. Register with CAC

   • Choose business structure: LLC or sole proprietorship
   • Register business name (e.g., "Dr. [Name] Telemedicine Services")
   • Obtain incorporation certificate
   • Cost: ₦50,000 - ₦150,000
   • Timeline: 2-4 weeks

2. Tax Registration

   • Obtain TIN from FIRS
   • Register for VAT if applicable
   • Set up for self-employment tax
   • Cost: Free

Additional Considerations

1. Professional Indemnity Insurance: ₦100,000 - ₦500,000/year
2. Data Protection Compliance: Follow Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR)
3. HMO Partnerships (Optional): Some HMOs now cover telemedicine
4. International Practice: Additional requirements if serving patients outside Nigeria

Step 2: Technology Setup and Infrastructure

Essential Technology Requirements

Hardware (₦300,000 - ₦1 million)

• Laptop or Desktop Computer: High-quality webcam and microphone
  • Cost: ₦200,000 - ₦600,000
• Smartphone or Tablet: For mobile consultations
  • Cost: ₦80,000 - ₦400,000
• Headset with Microphone: Professional audio quality
  • Cost: ₦15,000 - ₦80,000
• Ring Light: Good lighting for video consultations
  • Cost: ₦10,000 - ₦40,000
• Backup Power: UPS or inverter system
  • Cost: ₦50,000 - ₦200,000

Internet Connectivity (₦15,000 - ₦50,000/month)

• Primary Internet: Minimum 10 Mbps upload/download
  • Fiber optic preferred (Spectranet, Smile, Airtel, MTN)
  • Cost: ₦10,000 - ₦30,000/month
• Backup Internet: Mobile hotspot or secondary ISP
  • Cost: ₦5,000 - ₦20,000/month

Software and Platforms (₦20,000 - ₦80,000/month)

• Telemedicine Platform: Video consultation software
  • Options: ClinikEHR (₦15,000-30,000/month), Zoom Healthcare, Doxy.me
• Electronic Medical Records (EMR): Patient record management
  • Integrated with telemedicine platform preferred
• Payment Processing: Accept online payments
  • Paystack, Flutterwave, bank transfers
• Communication Tools: WhatsApp Business, email

Professional Setup (₦100,000 - ₦400,000)

• Consultation Space: Quiet, professional background
  • Neutral wall, good lighting, minimal distractions
• Professional Backdrop: Branded or medical-themed
  • Cost: ₦20,000 - ₦100,000
• Soundproofing (Optional): For privacy and noise reduction
  • Cost: ₦50,000 - ₦200,000

Total Technology Investment: ₦500,000 - ₦2 million (initial) + ₦35,000 - ₦130,000/month (ongoing)

Step 3: Telemedicine Practice Management Software

ClinikEHR offers comprehensive telemedicine practice management features specifically designed for Nigerian doctors.

Key Features:

• Integrated Video Consultations: HIPAA-compliant video calls within the platform
• Online Appointment Booking: Patients book and pay for consultations online
• Electronic Medical Records: Complete EMR with telemedicine-specific templates
• E-Prescribing: Digital prescriptions sent directly to patients or pharmacies
• Payment Integration: Accept payments via card, bank transfer, or mobile money
• Automated Reminders: SMS/WhatsApp reminders for appointments
• Patient Portal: Patients access medical records and consultation history
• Consent Management: Digital consent forms for telemedicine
• Secure Messaging: HIPAA-compliant patient communication
• Financial Reports: Track revenue, expenses, and profitability

Telemedicine-Specific Features:

• Virtual Waiting Room: Patients wait online until doctor is ready
• Screen Sharing: Share medical information during consultations
• Recording (Optional): Record consultations for documentation
• Multi-Device Support: Conduct consultations from laptop, tablet, or phone
• Offline Mode: Access patient records even without internet

Pricing: ₦15,000 - ₦30,000/month (includes video consultations, EMR, billing, and support)

Why ClinikEHR for Telemedicine:

• All-in-one platform (no need for multiple tools)
• Naira pricing (no forex charges)
• Local support in Lagos
• Works on Nigerian internet speeds
• Integrated payment processing
• Free 30-day trial

Step 4: Services and Pricing Strategy

Suitable Telemedicine Services

Ideal for Telemedicine:

• Follow-up consultations
• Chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension)
• Mental health consultations
• Prescription refills
• Medical advice and second opinions
• Health screening and risk assessment
• Medication review
• Lab result interpretation
• Minor illness consultations (cold, flu, UTI)

Not Suitable for Telemedicine:

• Emergency conditions
• Conditions requiring physical examination
• First-time diagnosis of serious conditions
• Procedures requiring hands-on intervention
• Situations requiring diagnostic tests

Pricing Strategy

Consultation Fees:

• General Consultation: ₦3,000 - ₦8,000 (15-20 minutes)
• Specialist Consultation: ₦8,000 - ₦20,000 (20-30 minutes)
• Follow-up Consultation: ₦2,000 - ₦5,000 (10-15 minutes)
• Extended Consultation: ₦10,000 - ₦25,000 (30-45 minutes)

Package Pricing:

• Monthly Subscription: ₦15,000 - ₦40,000 (unlimited consultations)
• Family Package: ₦25,000 - ₦60,000/month (up to 4 family members)
• Corporate Package: Custom pricing for employee telehealth

Pricing Considerations:

• Price competitively but reflect your expertise
• Consider patient demographics and ability to pay
• Offer package deals for chronic disease management
• Provide discounts for prepaid consultations
• Accept insurance where possible

Step 5: Marketing and Patient Acquisition

Digital Marketing Strategies

1. Professional Website (₦100,000 - ₦400,000)

• Clear description of telemedicine services
• Online booking and payment
• Doctor profile and credentials
• Patient testimonials
• Health blog
• SEO optimized for local searches

2. Social Media Marketing (₦20,000 - ₦80,000/month)

• Facebook and Instagram presence
• Share health tips and educational content
• Live Q&A sessions
• Patient success stories (with consent)
• Targeted advertising to reach potential patients

3. Google My Business

• Free listing for local visibility
• Collect patient reviews
• Post updates and health tips
• Appear in local searches

4. WhatsApp Business

• Create business profile
• Share availability and services
• Quick patient communication
• Broadcast health tips to contacts

5. Content Marketing

• Write health articles and blog posts
• Create educational videos
• Share on social media and website
• Establish yourself as expert

6. Email Marketing

• Build email list of patients
• Send health newsletters
• Appointment reminders
• Special offers and updates

Traditional Marketing

Professional Networking:

• Join medical associations and groups
• Attend conferences and seminars
• Network with other healthcare providers
• Build referral relationships

Community Engagement:

• Offer free health talks (virtual or in-person)
• Participate in health awareness campaigns
• Sponsor community events
• Partner with local organizations

Word of Mouth:

• Provide excellent patient care
• Encourage patient referrals
• Offer referral incentives
• Request patient testimonials and reviews

Step 6: Financial Planning and Business Model

Startup Costs

Item	Solo Practice	Group Practice
Business Registration	₦50,000 - ₦150,000	₦100,000 - ₦250,000
Technology Setup	₦500,000 - ₦1.5M	₦1.5M - ₦4M
Software (First Year)	₦180,000 - ₦360,000	₦360,000 - ₦720,000
Professional Setup	₦100,000 - ₦400,000	₦300,000 - ₦1M
Insurance	₦100,000 - ₦300,000	₦300,000 - ₦800,000
Marketing Launch	₦150,000 - ₦500,000	₦400,000 - ₦1M
Working Capital	₦300,000 - ₦800,000	₦800,000 - ₦2M
TOTAL	₦1.38M - ₦4M	₦3.76M - ₦9.77M

Monthly Operating Expenses

Expense	Solo Practice	Group Practice
Internet	₦15,000 - ₦50,000	₦50,000 - ₦150,000
Software Subscriptions	₦20,000 - ₦80,000	₦80,000 - ₦200,000
Marketing	₦30,000 - ₦100,000	₦100,000 - ₦300,000
Professional Fees	₦20,000 - ₦60,000	₦60,000 - ₦150,000
Utilities	₦20,000 - ₦60,000	₦60,000 - ₦150,000
Salaries (if applicable)	₦0 - ₦200,000	₦500,000 - ₦2M
Miscellaneous	₦20,000 - ₦50,000	₦50,000 - ₦150,000
TOTAL	₦125,000 - ₦600,000	₦900,000 - ₦3.1M

Revenue Projections

Solo Practice:

• Consultations per day: 5-15 (part-time to full-time)
• Average fee per consultation: ₦5,000 - ₦12,000
• Working days per month: 20-26
• Monthly revenue: ₦500,000 - ₦4.68M

Group Practice:

• Doctors: 3-5
• Consultations per day (total): 20-60
• Monthly revenue: ₦2M - ₦18.72M

Break-Even Timeline: 3-9 months for solo practice, 6-15 months for group practice

Step 7: Best Practices for Telemedicine Success

Clinical Best Practices

1. Patient Selection:

• Screen patients for telemedicine suitability
• Refer complex cases for in-person evaluation
• Have clear inclusion/exclusion criteria
• Communicate limitations upfront

2. Consultation Quality:

• Ensure good audio and video quality
• Minimize distractions and interruptions
• Maintain professional demeanor
• Allow adequate time for each consultation
• Document thoroughly

3. Patient Safety:

• Verify patient identity and location
• Have emergency protocols in place
• Know when to escalate to emergency services
• Provide clear follow-up instructions
• Ensure patient understands treatment plan

4. Communication:

• Use clear, simple language
• Confirm patient understanding
• Provide written summaries
• Be available for follow-up questions
• Maintain professional boundaries

Technical Best Practices

1. Reliable Technology:

• Test equipment before each session
• Have backup internet connection
• Keep software updated
• Use secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms
• Have technical support available

2. Data Security:

• Use encrypted communication
• Secure patient data storage
• Follow data protection regulations
• Have data breach protocols
• Regular security audits

3. Professional Presentation:

• Good lighting and background
• Professional attire
• Quiet, private space
• Minimize technical issues
• Start consultations on time

Step 8: Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge 1: Patient Trust and Acceptance Solution:

• Educate patients on telemedicine benefits
• Provide excellent first consultation experience
• Collect and showcase patient testimonials
• Offer trial consultations at reduced rates
• Build strong online reputation

Challenge 2: Technical Issues Solution:

• Invest in quality equipment and internet
• Have backup systems in place
• Provide technical support to patients
• Use user-friendly platforms
• Test technology regularly

Challenge 3: Payment Collection Solution:

• Require prepayment for consultations
• Use automated payment systems
• Offer multiple payment options
• Have clear refund policy
• Follow up on failed payments

Challenge 4: Regulatory Uncertainty Solution:

• Stay updated on MDCN guidelines
• Join telemedicine professional associations
• Maintain comprehensive documentation
• Have legal counsel review practices
• Carry adequate professional insurance

Challenge 5: Work-Life Balance Solution:

• Set clear working hours
• Use scheduling software to manage appointments
• Take regular breaks between consultations
• Don't overbook yourself
• Maintain boundaries with patients

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is telemedicine legal in Nigeria? Yes, telemedicine is legal in Nigeria. The MDCN has issued guidelines for telemedicine practice. Doctors must maintain the same standard of care as in-person consultations and follow all professional regulations.

How much can I earn from telemedicine practice in Nigeria? Earnings vary based on consultation volume and fees. Part-time telemedicine can generate ₦500,000-1.5M/month, while full-time practice can earn ₦2M-5M+/month depending on specialty and patient volume.

Do I need a physical clinic to practice telemedicine? No, you don't need a physical clinic for pure telemedicine practice. However, you need a professional consultation space with good internet, proper lighting, and privacy.

Can I prescribe medications via telemedicine? Yes, you can prescribe medications via telemedicine following standard prescribing guidelines. However, avoid prescribing controlled substances without in-person evaluation. Use secure electronic prescriptions.

Which telemedicine platform is best for Nigerian doctors? ClinikEHR is specifically designed for Nigerian doctors with integrated video consultations, EMR, billing, Naira pricing, and local support starting at ₦15,000/month. It works well on Nigerian internet speeds.

How do I handle emergencies during telemedicine consultations? Have clear emergency protocols: verify patient location, guide them to call emergency services (112 or local ambulance), stay on the line if possible, and document the emergency thoroughly.

Can I practice telemedicine internationally from Nigeria? Yes, but you may need additional licensing or registration in the countries where your patients are located. Research specific requirements for each jurisdiction.

How do I get paid for telemedicine consultations? Use integrated payment platforms (Paystack, Flutterwave), accept bank transfers, or use telemedicine platforms with built-in payment processing. Require prepayment before consultations.

Related Reading on ClinikEHR

• Telemedicine marketing: Telehealth Marketing Strategies
• CPT codes: CPT Codes for Telehealth 2025
• Private practice: Best EMR for Private Clinics in Nigeria
• Clinic setup: Best Guide to Setting Up a Private Clinic in Nigeria

Conclusion: Building a Successful Telemedicine Practice in Nigeria

Starting a telemedicine practice in Nigeria is an innovative way to deliver healthcare services with flexibility, lower overhead costs, and the ability to reach patients across geographic boundaries. With proper planning, quality technology, professional approach, and the right telemedicine platform, you can build a thriving virtual practice.

Key Success Factors:

• Regulatory compliance with MDCN telemedicine guidelines
• Reliable technology and internet connectivity
• Professional consultation setup and presentation
• Excellent patient communication and care
• Efficient practice management with ClinikEHR
• Effective digital marketing and online presence
• Clear pricing and payment systems
• Strong patient trust and satisfaction
• Continuous professional development

ClinikEHR provides the complete telemedicine practice management solution you need, with integrated video consultations, EMR, online booking, payment processing, and analytics—all in one affordable platform designed specifically for Nigerian doctors.

Start Your Telemedicine Practice Journey Today

Ready to launch your telemedicine practice or add virtual consultations to your existing practice? ClinikEHR offers everything you need to deliver professional telemedicine services.

Start Your Free 30-Day Trial - No credit card required. Full access to all telemedicine features including video consultations, EMR, and payment processing.

Need help setting up your telemedicine practice? Contact our team for a free consultation on how ClinikEHR can help you launch and grow your virtual practice.

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For more information on telemedicine regulations in Nigeria, visit the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) website or consult with healthcare legal experts familiar with Nigerian telemedicine practice.