By Abujah Racheal
The Health Sector Reform Coalition (HSRC) in Nigeria has called on the government at all levels to improve the quality of healthcare systems to curb preventable deaths in health facilities.
The Chairperson of the coalition, Mrs Chika Offor, made the call while briefing newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja.
Offor pointed out that improvement in the healthcare system was necessary to save lives and address emergency issues promptly.
She said that the tragic death of Ms Greatness Olorunfemi, a victim of “one chance” , was a symptom of a deeply flawed healthcare and emergency care system.
Olorunfemi died from the injuries sustained from the attack by ‘one chance’ operators in Abuja.
“This in spite of the introduction of the National Health Act in 2014.
“The HSRC had championed this act, which promised improvements in healthcare provision,” she said.
She said that the National Health Act was meant to bring about positive change with the establishment of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund and its associated Gateways such as the Emergency Management Treatment (EMT) Gateway.
She added that the critical systems like the EMT Gateway have failed to launch since 2019, which was catastrophic.
Offor argued that economic barriers have historically plagued the nation’s health sector, leading to a significant disease burden and mortality rates.
“While states like Lagos have made progress, the inertia in other areas, including the FCT, is a dereliction of duty.
“The path towards universal health coverage is hindered by obstacles that the government must address.
“The HSRC is issuing a distress call to the government, media, and private sector stakeholders, demanding immediate action.
“We are emphasising the need for prompt information and equipping of health and security agencies to uphold laws and guidelines.
“Heightened security is also called for in vulnerable areas to ensure citizen safety,” she said.
The chairperson further urged the government to provide swift and immediate medical aid, as well as the abolition of policies that hindered citizens’ access to emergency treatment.
She described nationwide awareness as “crucial”, adding that every Nigerian should be informed of their rights to emergency medical care.
“The establishment of feedback channels for citizens to voice their concerns is also urged, with the involvement of the traditional and religious sectors and the National Orientation Agency.
“Coordinated care without delays is essential, along with the training and re-training of healthcare providers on quality of care,” she said.
She said that the activation of the National Emergency Medical Ambulance System was deemed a priority to prevent further tragedies.
Offor implored media to amplify this emergency with the urgency it demands, adding that the safety and health of all Nigerians were at stake.
“The time for talk is over. Action is demanded to save Nigeria’s failing healthcare system,” she said. (NAN)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru/Philip Yatai
