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Revitalizing Health Systems: Dr. Alausa Announces Ambitious Overhaul At HFN Conference

Published

10 months ago

Feb 9, 2024.

Eko Hot Blog reports in a groundbreaking keynote address at the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN) Annual Conference, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare outlined a comprehensive plan to bridge the gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Themed “Bridging the Gaps in Healthcare: Public and Private Integration as a Catalyst for Sustainable Growth,” the conference provided a platform for unveiling the government’s strategy.

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Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, expressed gratitude to the attendees, acknowledging the presence of notable figures such as the Executive Governor of Lagos State, represented by the Honorable Commissioner for Health, Professor Akia Bayami.

Dr. Alausa emphasized the importance of public and private collaboration in transforming Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. “As a nation, we can break the gap in government and private sector innovations for healthcare transformation,” stated the minister.

Highlighting the unique structure of Nigeria’s healthcare system, Dr. Alausa discussed the autonomy of primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, leading to economic and accessibility challenges. He quoted, “This presents both economic as well as barriers to accessing quality medical services, resulting in poor health outcomes.”

Recognizing the role of the private sector, the minister commended their persistence and dedication. “Private sector players encompass a diverse range of non-state actors in the healthcare sector, with the potential to increase the quality of services provided to the public,” noted Dr. Alausa.

Dr. Alausa assured the audience of the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive.

He outlined investments in infrastructure, secondary and tertiary care provision, and the mobilization of additional resources to meet increasing healthcare needs.

The Minister announced strategic initiatives, including the establishment of medical installation hubs in each geopolitical zone and the appointment of a National Coordinator for the Presidential Online Healthcare System.

“This approval seeks to unlock billions of dollars in new investments into the nation’s healthcare delivery system,” quoted Dr. Alausa.

Addressing concerns about the shortage of healthcare workers, Dr. Alausa outlined plans to collaborate with state governments and increase the intake of students in medical fields. “We’re working with the National Postgraduate Medical College to train super specialists,” stated the Minister, emphasizing the need for specialized skills.

Responding to questions about retaining trained professionals, the minister acknowledged the challenge and pledged to create an environment that encourages professionals to stay. “We are developing measures to reduce the cost of pharmaceuticals and ensure a conducive working environment for healthcare workers,” he said.

In response to concerns about foreign ownership of healthcare businesses, Dr. Alausa acknowledged the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) and promised to explore regulatory controls. “We need to ensure that the value stays within Nigeria’s economy,” emphasized the minister.

Closing the address, Dr. Alausa thanked the HFN for the invitation and reiterated the government’s commitment to providing meaningful and critical healthcare to every Nigerian.

FUTHER READING:

This comprehensive plan unveiled by the Minister sets the stage for a transformative journey in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, aiming for public and private collaboration to drive sustainable growth and improve health outcomes for the nation’s citizens.