By Omolara Akintoye
PHARMACISTS under the umbrella of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) have urged the federal and state governments as well as relevant stakeholders to ensure drug availability and security in the country.
The PSN similarly called for capacity building and adequate competences in the Nigerian health system, saying the prescribed tools could pave the way to re-position the nation’s health system for future public health emergencies.
In the paper, titled ‘COVID-19 – Myths and Realities of the Nigerian Health System,’ the PSN Lagos said for many years, through its characteristic forward looking leadership, has always championed the need for a sanitized drug distribution channel in Nigeria. “Cardinal to this agenda is the need to ensure self-sufficiency in the production of essential drugs by local pharmaceutical manufacturers.
In the statement signed by Chairman of the Lagos PSN, Gbolagade Iyiola, the group said government at all levels must begin to invest significantly into primary healthcare (PHC) with emphasis on preventive therapy through maximum engagement of Environmental Health Officers.
According to him, it is a statement of fact that government at all levels must tinker with their budgets to feature preventive care therapy at the expense of curative therapy.
He said government must create the atmosphere for health reforms which will focus on maximising the potentials of its workforce. “Healthcare is a globally inclined endeavour driven by international best practice. This is why each health professional specializes all over the world.”
Therefore, in the quest to open the restricted borders of progression in healthcare in Nigeria, the PSN urged the Presidency to direct unhindered access of training facilities to all health workers in training at undergraduate and post-graduate levels.
”The FG must recognize and approve the consultancy cadre for pharmacists and other deserving health workers to improve competencies/capacities in emergencies and other times.”
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