The Affiliation of Resident Docs, Federal Capital Territory Administration (ARD-FCTA) has expressed concern over abductions of healthcare staff throughout the nation.
ARD-FCTA President, Dr. Rahman Olayinka acknowledged this throughout a press convention on Monday the place he urged the federal government in any respect ranges to deal with the worsening safety state of affairs.
Olayinka described the abductions of well being staff as a critical problem, sustaining that insecurity is likely one of the main components driving docs to hunt higher alternatives overseas, alongside the persistent problem of insufficient welfare.
“It’s no shock that we’re witnessing what’s now known as the ‘Japa syndrome’ in Nigeria. It’s because the federal government has not sufficiently addressed the welfare of healthcare staff,” he stated.
He added, “Why do docs search higher alternatives overseas? It’s easy – restricted working hours, higher pay, and entry to high quality healthcare.
“Right here in Nigeria, nevertheless, docs usually work below such harsh circumstances that they turn into unwell themselves and can’t afford ample healthcare.
“It’s shameful that as healthcare professionals, we’re unable to entry the very healthcare system we work in. These unresolved points have pressured many healthcare staff to go away the nation in quest of higher alternatives.”
Olayinka additionally identified that healthcare staff, together with members of the Nationwide Affiliation of Resident Docs (NARD) have persistently engaged with the federal government on points regarding welfare, together with salaries, working circumstances, and safety, lamenting that these issues have remained unresolved.
“The dearth of correct gear, substandard working environments, and poor safety in hospitals are key components driving the migration of healthcare staff.
“These challenges considerably impression the supply of high quality healthcare to sufferers throughout the nation,” he added.
Olayinka additionally recounted a current incident involving the kidnapping of a medical physician from inside a hospital premises.
“We’re grateful that the physician has been launched, however everyone knows the efforts that have been required to safe their freedom. If safety and welfare can’t be assured within the office, what ought to we count on?” he requested.
Turning to broader healthcare targets, he emphasised the necessity for elevated funding in Nigeria’s healthcare system, significantly in main healthcare in direction of assembly the 2030 Common Well being Protection (UHC) goal.
“Docs within the FCT have been actively contributing to the first healthcare sector via numerous outreach programmes in areas akin to Bwari, Gwarinpa, and Kuje,” he defined.
“These initiatives goal to deliver healthcare nearer to the folks and should proceed, if we’re to fulfill the UHC goal,” he added.
He additional lauded the FCT Well being Providers and Atmosphere Secretariat, led by the Minister Nyesom Wike and Mandate Secretary, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe for his or her efforts, acknowledging their vital contributions to strengthening healthcare companies within the FCT.
“Some well being circumstances could be addressed on the main healthcare degree earlier than escalating to normal or tertiary hospitals. Investing within the well being system, particularly main healthcare, is essential for us to fulfill the 2030 UHC aim,” Olayinka stated.
