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Tag: Healthcare

  • How digital technology is solving healthcare problems, by expert

    How digital technology is solving healthcare problems, by expert

    In this interview with Chinyere Okoroafor, Adebamowo talks about his wealth of experience in telemedicine and why digital technology is necessary for healthcare delivery.

     What inspired the establishment of MyMedicalBank?

     I started MyMedicalBank in 2016 upon discovering significant gaps in the African health ecosystem that could be readily bridged through the deployment of information technology. 

    The idea to start the company came about a year earlier around February 2015 when my mum became critically unwell in Nigeria.

     The doctor attending to her was unable to access her health information with which to establish her medical history and facilitate timely continuity of care. 

    Sadly my mum passed away shortly afterwards. The idea I conceived at the time was to create a mobile digital platform that would enable healthcare providers to have access to essential health information of patients in any care setting at the click of a button. 

     The platform will also enable users – patients and non-patients to store their health information and access a wide range of healthcare services from the convenience of their mobile phones. 

    Think of MyMedicalBank as Uberizing healthcare. I thereafter began doing some research and validating the idea through surveys and consulting with several healthcare professionals. I also shared the idea with a group of friends and partners that later metamorphosed into the team that launched the company officially on June 12, 2018. Since then the company has remained committed to pursuing its vision of digitizing healthcare access for the common man in sub-Saharan Africa through creating digital solutions that connect consumers with healthcare providers, health information and access to their health records from any location or care setting. 

    How does the App help to bridge the gap between patients and medical personnel or how does the App make accessibility to healthcare easier? 

     MyMedicalBank is a one-stop digital health platform that exists as an app and a web application (www.mymedicalbank.com). As a data aggregator, MyMedicalBank brings together both the healthcare providers and consumers on the same platform. Facilitating this connection makes it easier for users to find and access a wide range of health services from the convenience of their mobile phones and at competitive costs. Users can find, book and pay for doctor’s consultations, diagnostic tests, drugs, home nursing, health insurance, ambulance service and many other healthcare services available from thousands of clinics, hospitals, medical laboratories, pharmacies, HMOs and other providers on the platform. 

    These services can be delivered to the consumer in any care setting – on-site (for instance in a clinic or lab), in the comfort of their own home or virtually (telemedicine). Not only that, medical records and tasks generated in the course of these healthcare encounters including clinic letters, test reports and images, vaccination records, medical history, appointments, medication reminders and others can be safely stored, recorded or automated on the platform. 

    Creating this solution eliminates unnecessary waiting times. It brings the user’s health records to the mobile space. By overcoming geographical barriers it opens up the users to a wider range of healthcare providers beyond their immediate vicinity making it possible to get second a medical opinion on health conditions they are being managed for. 

     By enabling users to access healthcare services from their phone it becomes possible for a user who resides in one part of the country or even outside Nigeria to conveniently arrange for hospital appointments, doctor’s home visits, ambulance service, supply of live-in careers or enrolment in a health insurance plan for their family members who reside in a different location – all through the platform.  

    In the case of health emergencies, how handy is MyMedicalBank App?

    MyMedicalBank app allows users to record their emergency health information such as their contact information and that of their next of kin, allergies, underlying medical conditions and prescription drugs. 

    The user can give a pre- approval for this particular component of their health information to be shared with healthcare providers and other relevant government agencies like FRSC in the event of an emergency. 

    As far as we are aware, MyMedicalBank is the only app in Nigeria that currently offers this solution

     How would you rate the innovation as an improvement in the health sector vis-à-vis the way Bolt and Uber have disrupted taxi-services across the globe? 

     One area Nigeria has experienced massive improvements in the last two decades is in the adoption of digital technology in sectors like banking, commerce, transportation, entertainment and education. Even the political landscape is catching up quickly with the introduction of BVAS, iRev and electronic voter verification. 

    However the health sector has been very slow to jump on this trend. For instance there is currently no health app that can be adjudged as a household name in Nigeria in the class of the likes of Uber, Bolt or oPay. 

    Aside that, how many of the 42,000 clinics and hospitals in Nigeria have an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) platform or even a simple website? 

    This gap is the kind of narrative MyMedicalBank is working hard to change through the various solutions we have introduced in the country some of which represent the first of their kind. 

    These include MyMedicalBank HomeCare – reputed to the first digital platform that allows users to book home care services from home care providers nationwide and MyMedicalBank Health Market – Nigeria’s first digital healthcare marketplace. This is why it is not all doom and gloom in the health sector. 

    During the COVID-19 pandemic-induced lockdown of 2020, with many patients unable or unwilling to go the hospital there was a surge in demand for telemedicine leading to the emergence of many telemedicine startups. An increasing number of providers are embracing digital technology as well particularly those in large cities. More health facilities are embracing digitization, EMR, Hospital Information Management System (HIMS), telemedicine, and appointment scheduling software. 

     One of the biggest factors responsible for the low rate of adoption of digital technology by health facilities in Nigeria relates to Cybersecurity concerns. 

    In the absence of assurances protecting the confidentiality and security of patient health records, health managers have been reluctant to embrace digital transformation. The cost and reliability of infrastructure particularly internet connectivity is also a notable concern. For providers who are willing to spend money on adopting digital technology, they have often expressed concerns about the lack of skilled ICT manpower to implement and support these technical projects. 

    Regardless of the challenges there are solutions that can be implemented to support healthcare providers and consumers alike to embrace digital technology in ways that offer assurance and deliver maximum value. 

    Through the MyMedicalBank platform we are contributing to transforming the health sector in Nigeria by digitizing and democratizing access to healthcare. 

    Read Also: Healthcare delivery: FG seeks private sector help to bridge procurement funding gap

     Who can use the App?

    Certainly! I would say MyMedicalBank is for everyone not necessarily because I am the founder but because it is a product that caters for a need that touches all of us – healthcare. 

    Pertinent to say that MyMedicalBank is not just designed to help users access the services they need only when they fall ill but to also access benefits designed to prevent them from falling ill and to maintain good health.

     As a one-stop health platform, MyMedicalBank offers users unique access to healthcare services on demand. MyMedicalBank delivers a range of solutions in ways no other app currently does in Nigeria. It is best for users to think of MyMedicalBank as their personal assistant as far as healthcare is concerned. 

    This is why we have adopted the motto: Think Health, Think MyMedicalBank. 

    The platform helps users to connect instantly with doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, pharmacists, carers, diagnostic centres, HMOs, rehabilitation centres and other providers offering them options to access the service they need where they need it whether on site, at home or via video call. 

    MyMedicalBank is designed to help people save time and healthcare costs by enabling them automate their health tasks. 

    For instance through the app they can set up medication reminders which ensures they don’t miss a dose again. 

    They can find over 42,000 clinics and hospitals across all 774 local government areas of Nigeria and record a schedule of their appointment with these facilities. No health app in the country does this. Everyone has some health records and information they need to keep and access at critical times including in emergencies. MyMedicalBank is currently the only health app in Nigeria that allows users to securely store, access and share their health records with any healthcare provider they choose to. MyMedicalBank does more than allow users to store their health data it also allows them to generate useful insights and health intelligence from the same data. 

    For instance, it can accurately calculate their Body Mass Index (BMI) and advise if their Blood Pressure or other health vital is too high and what they can do about all. 

     Life could be unpredictable. While we may not be able to predict the future, we can prepare for it. 

    MyMedicalBank app helps users prepare for life uncertainties. The app comes in handy in the event of an emergency with authorized doctors, paramedics and other healthcare professionals being able to utilise a user’s ‘Emergency Health Information’ to attend to them say in those critical times when they may even be unconscious. 

     Above all onboarding on MyMedicalBank is free for all users both for the app and the web application.

     Users only pay when they are booking a service for example to see a doctor or buy a drug. 

    Users can also chat with the customer service team via the app if they need any help. 

     

  • Healthcare delivery: FG seeks private sector help to bridge procurement funding gap

    Healthcare delivery: FG seeks private sector help to bridge procurement funding gap

    The Federal government has declared that it cannot bridge the health sector procurement gap of $29m alone and is seeking the assistance of the private sector to address the issue as it begins the implementation of the sector’s Four Point Agenda, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate has said.

    He said though, enduring policies to revitalize the sector have been put in place, the participation of the private sector is critical to the success of the policies.

    Pate, during a high-level private sector forum on family planning in Lagos on Thursday explained that engagement with core private sector organizations and players is critical to ignite effective partnerships and make crucial decisions on the appropriate roadmap to developing a long-term sustainability plan for greater impact on health and expanded family planning products and services in the country.

    While stating the constraints faced by the government on the issei, Pate said, “It is worthy of note that in the last five years, the cost of procurement has risen from $26,685,834.33 in 2019 to $41,852,705.15 in 2023.

    “Over the same period, the procurement funding gap has increased from $5,794,330.95 in 2019 to $29,054,665.15 in 2023 making it impossible to achieve full supply of family planning commodities to health facilities”.

    Represented by the Director of Family Health, Stella Nwosu, the Minister lamented that Nigeria is currently confronted with grave social and economic development challenges due to the nation’s dwindling revenues which have become inadequate to cater for our high population of about 211 million making her the most populous in Africa and 7th in the world.

    “This is further compounded by our poor health indices including a very high maternal mortality ratio of 512 deaths per 100,000 live births, a very low modern Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (mCPR) of 12%, and an Unmet Need for Family Planning of 19% (NDHS 2018)”, he said.

    In a statement by Patricia Deworitshe, the Ministry’s Director of Media and Public Relations, Pate however assured that the government is not discouraged since it was its responsibility to find solutions to the challenges

    “At the just concluded 64th National Council on Health Meeting, Council approved the request for establishment and funding of Budget Lines for Family Planning at both National and Sub-National levels for the implementation of Nigeria’s Family Planning programme.

    “However, while this is a positive step, it must be said that effectively addressing the funding and other challenges facing Nigeria’s family planning programme goes beyond the public sector.

    “A broad-based stakeholder engagement process involving the public, social marketing as well as the private sectors is required.

    Read Also: Don urges Fed Govt to improve access to quality healthcare

    “It is important to note that a National Guideline on Private Engagement for Family Planning has already been developed and will be a useful tool in driving this process”.

    In her remarks, the wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Health District 6, Abimbola Mabogunje noted the growing population in the nation has its attendant challenges such as increased rate of unemployment, high rate of poverty, poor access to sanitation, poor health, lack of or poor education and increased crime rates.

    She noted that one effective tool for tackling the problems is for families to have the number of children they can cater for, adding, “Although the government is making frantic efforts to make access to modern family planning free for women, there is a need for all relevant stakeholders in the health sector to join forces with the government to chart a course towards effective funding of family planning services”.

  • Five entrepreneurs’ innovations boosting healthcare in Africa

    Five entrepreneurs’ innovations boosting healthcare in Africa

    Africa is blessed with so many innovative entrepreneurs. The majority of these entrepreneurs are major players in the global business landscape and their innovative ideas are solving several diverse challenges across different sectors in the continent and beyond.

    The COVID-19 pandemic ensured that health and wellness never leave the focus of our collective conscience. To say that the pandemic has forever altered our perception of well-being would be putting it mildly.

    As our technological toolkit expands, the healthcare industry is accommodating more of it in the way it delivers care to patients. Be it through apps, wearables or a remote companion – the solutions are developing, and fast.

    Here are five entrepreneurs who are changing the African narrative by facilitating innovation in the healthcare industry:

    1. Temie Giwa-Tubosun, founder of Lifebank

    Temie is on a mission to save lives through innovation, harnessing the power of drone technology to deliver much-needed lifesaving supplies of blood to patients in need.

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    2. Donato J. Tramuto, founder of Health eVillages

    Donato’s Health eVillages is making easy access to healthcare services across the continent, especially in remote areas of Africa.

    3. Lilian Makoi Rabi, founder of Jamii (bimaAFYA)

    Lilian’s Jamii offers mobile micro-health insurance for the low-income and informal sector, enabling healthcare services by drastically reducing costs with its completely mobile, paperless solution.

    4. Brian Iredale founder of Nurture Africa

    An entrepreneur providing access to quality healthcare, education, and sustainable livelihood projects whilst mainstreaming child welfare and gender equality through all our activities.

    5. Olufemi Sunmonu founder of PurpleSource Healthcare

    a healthcare management and investment company with a vision to create integrated private health systems in Nigeria spanning preventive, curative, diagnostic, rehabilitation, and wellness healthcare enterprises to address the current quality and outcomes shortcomings in the Nigerian healthcare market.

  • Don urges Fed Govt to improve access to quality healthcare

    Don urges Fed Govt to improve access to quality healthcare

    By Femi Adeniyi, BU

    Dean of School of Nursing Sciences, Babcock University,Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Prof. Christiana Sowunmi has urged the Federal Government to improve access to quality healthcare to reduce the high rate of maternal mortality in the country.

    Sowunmi delivered the institution’s 45th inaugural lecture entitled: Plummeting maternal mortality rate: an uphill task. It took place on campus.

    The Professor of Maternal and Child Health argued that many of the pregnancy-related causes of death were preventable with effective, safe, patient-centred quality maternal and child healthcare services.

    She said to further reduce the maternal mortality rate in the country, healthcare resources needed by pregnant women should be made accessible at affordable prices.

    “Government needs to invest  material resources in infrastructure development, equipment and drugs for the adequate provision of basic and comprehensive emergency obstetric care in accordance to global standards,” she said.

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    According to her, while Nigeria makes up 2.4 per cent of the world’s population, it currently contributes 10 per cent of global maternal deaths placing it third behind South Sudan and Chad.

    Quoting the World Health Organisation (WHO), she said: “A Nigerian woman has 1 in 22 lifetime risk of dying during pregnancy, childbirth or postpartum or post abortion compared with the lifetime risk of 1 in 4,900 in developed countries.”

    Aside inadequacy and quality of healthcare facilities, she attributed high maternal mortality to the non-attendance of antenatal care, unavailability of skilled birth attendants during labour as well as low maternal education and socio-cultural norms against women, among others.

    Sowunmi said these are compounded by patients’ non-compliance with recommended treatments and preference for traditional birth attendants.

    She believes these narratives can be reversed if more women have access to quality healthcare facilities.

    “Patient’s  satisfaction is a strong indicator for healthcare quality. When patients are satisfied, they will return for institutional delivery rather than patronise Traditional Birth Attendants or worse still, totally uninformed birth attendant,” she added.

    She  recommended a four-point strategy to reducing Nigeria’s maternal mortality burden which include, accessible and affordable healthcare; political will; harnessing of WHO’s provisions and upgrade of health personnel knowledge and skill.

    “Reduction of maternal mortality rate is possible as documented in some pragmatic approach undertaken by government for example the Abiye scheme of Ondo State.

    “I call on governments in other Southwestern states to replicate such schemes to reduce the menace in the Southwest, Nigeria and Africa as a whole,” she said.

    She enjoined stakeholders in the healthcare sector to continue to step up their research work to reduce the high rate of maternal deaths in the country.

  • Fidson Healthcare joins forces with Aidea Pharma to tackle Africa’s medical challenges

    Fidson Healthcare joins forces with Aidea Pharma to tackle Africa’s medical challenges

    In a significant move to improve healthcare standards in Nigeria and Africa, Fidson Healthcare Plc (Fidson), a prominent Nigerian pharmaceutical company, and Jiangsu Aidea Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd (Aidea Pharma), an innovative Chinese pharmaceutical firm, formally entered into a strategic cooperation agreement. This collaboration is geared towards proactively addressing medical challenges, especially in the treatment of over 1.9 million HIV-infected individuals in Nigeria, through the use of cutting-edge and innovative drug solutions.

    The agreement involves a mutual sharing and integration of resources, technical expertise, and market positions between the two companies. Fidson Healthcare Plc and Jiangsu Aidea Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd are set to collaborate on project development, market expansion, and various aspects by leveraging their competitive advantages in the pharmaceutical sector. This comprehensive cooperation encompasses multi-level and multi-form collaboration, including, but not limited to, product manufacturing, promotional activities, sales initiatives, and participation in clinical research, spanning both existing products and pipeline projects. The promoters of the collaboration said they are confident that the partnership holds promise as a significant growth driver for both companies, particularly as a major factor in the development of local pharmaceutical manufacturing in Nigeria. It will also improve the healthcare and medical practice on the continent.   It is expected to be a sterling example of in-depth cooperation in the medical field between China and Nigeria.

    Read Also: 2024 budget: Katsina govt allocates 20% to water, education sectors – Commissioner

    At the signing ceremony in Yangzhou, China, Dr. Heliang Fu, Chairman of Aidea Pharma, stated, “This collaboration marks an important step for Aidea Pharma in its commitment to global medical cooperation. By integrating our expertise and experience in the field of innovative drugs, we are confident in bringing greater well-being to African patients.” Dr. Fidelis A. Ayebae, Managing Director and CEO of Fidson, said, “We are eagerly looking forward to this collaboration and we believe that the complementary strengths of both parties will inject new vitality into the medical field in Africa. This is also in line with our commitment “To provide better and more accessible medicines for the people of Africa.”

    Fidson Healthcare Plc, listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, is mainly engaged in the production and sales of high-quality medicines and healthcare products. It is the company that was the first to manufacture anti-retroviral ARV drugs in sub-Saharan Africa in 2005. Fidson has a large sales network and business scope in the Nigerian market, with over 300 products across several therapeutic classes. Jiangsu Aidea Pharmaceutical Co., also listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board of Shanghai Stock Exchange, is a company that focuses on the core development area of anti-HIV drugs and leverages its competitive advantages in the field of human protein. It is oriented towards addressing unmet clinical treatment needs in China and actively explores, develops, and markets innovative drugs.

  • Safe, comprehensive healthcare collective responsibility – Experts

    Safe, comprehensive healthcare collective responsibility – Experts

    By: Omolara Akintoye

    Experts have emphasised that improving women’s health and ensuring safe and comprehensive healthcare is a collective responsibility.

    These among others were the submission at the 57th Annual General Meeting of the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON) in Kano State.

    The Conference, according to the President of SOGON, Dr. Habib.M, Sadauki,  represents an extraordinary opportunity for members to unite by shared passion for advancing the field of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 

    According to Dasuki, the collective dedication of members towards improving women’s health and ensuring safe and comprehensive healthcare is the driving force behind the exceptional work they do.

    He reminded members that, their shared mission extends beyond the conference walls and resonates within the Medical Institutions, lives of patients they serve and the broader healthcare landscape of the Nation.

     The theme of the event was

    “The tragedy of maternal deaths in Nigeria: our collective responsibility” while the Sub themes include : Elimination of cervical cancer: The role of HPV Vaccination; Unmet Needs of Family Planning: The way forward and “Brining an end to the menace of female urogenital fistula”. 

    Read Also: Itire-Ikate LCDA, Rotary offer free healthcare

     A distinguished Service Award of Excellence in Research was given to a Renowned Obstetrics and Gynaecology expert, Professor Oliver Ezechi

     Prof. Oliver Ezechi is Director of Research and Head of the Research group for Maternal and child health at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research  (NIMR) Yaba, Lagos.

    Ezechi conducted research on all the themes of the 57th SOGON Annual General Meeting – Kano (2023)

    She said: “Being honored with an award like this by one’s teachers and peers is truly something to treasure. I accept this award with humility and a renewed determination to persist in serving humanity through research. 

    “SOGON is a society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians in Nigeria, and this prestigious award represents the highest recognition for distinguished service in the area of women’s health research, both nationally and internationally. I feel privileged to be among the select few who have received this award. I am truly grateful to both God and the society.”

  • Itire-Ikate LCDA, Rotary offer free healthcare

    Itire-Ikate LCDA, Rotary offer free healthcare

    • By Koribat Oshineye and Zainab Olanrewaju

    The Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has held free health screening for about 1,500 residents and others.

    The programme was in conjunction with the Rotary Action Group for Family Health and Aids Prevention and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

    The medical officer of the council, Dr. Oyekanmi Olufemi, said after the programme that more than the estimated number benefitted from the free check-ups and screening.

    “We checked a minimum of 500 people per day, so at the end of the three days, about 1,500 people benefitted from the free health services,” he said.

    The council’s Supervisor for Health, Rasheed Amusan, commended the initiative of the council boss, Ahmed apatira and the Rotary Club.

    Read Also: Kano to spend N40b on road, healthcare projects

    The Chairman of Inner Wheel District 911, Nigeria, Magdalene Adegoke, said whole essence of the service is to nip diseases in the bud by teaching people to examine themselves and get proper medical attention, and experience proper healthcare.

     “I would like to say that health is wealth and so without good health you cannot truly enjoy your life,” he said.

    A beneficiary, Adekunle Baruwa, appreciated the council and Rotary club for organising the free health initiative.

    Baruwa said it assisted him and many others to know their state of health. Another beneficiary, Idris Tawheed, said the programme would assist the beneficiaries in improving their health.

  • Seven African countries with best healthcare

    Seven African countries with best healthcare

    The healthcare system in Africa is not one that we are really proud of as we can definitely do better in that sector. Based on this, most of the elites, wealthy, rich and everyone who can afford it tend to look at healthcare outside the continent when they need to. This has been described as medical tourism.

    This is not to say that the fact that millions of Africans prefer to seek medical treatment abroad means that the health sector in Africa is completely bad. To the contrary, some African countries have better health care systems than others.

    Listed below are seven African countries with the best health care systems based on Numbeo’s health care index.

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    Google says Numbeo is the world’s largest database of user-contributed data about cities and countries that calculates a health score for each country based on technology, medical personnel qualifications, medical equipment, waiting times, accessibility of medical locations, and staff friendliness.

    According to Numbeo, the health care index is defined as “an estimation of the overall quality of the health care system, health care professionals, equipment, staff, doctors, cost, etc.”

    South Africa: Has a health care index score of 63.97.

    Kenya: Has a health care index score of 63.40.

    Tunisia: Has a health care index score of 56.54.

    Algeria: Has a health care index score of 52.88.

    Nigeria: Has a health care index score of 48.49.

    Egypt: Has a health care index score of 47.01.

    Morocco: Has a health care index score of 46.69.

  • YOCHMA: Providing enhanced healthcare access for Yobe workers

    YOCHMA: Providing enhanced healthcare access for Yobe workers

    Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right that every citizen deserves. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, the lack of adequate health care coverage has been a pressing concern for years. Addressing this challenge head-on, the Yobe State Government took a decisive step in 2017 by establishing the Yobe Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (YOCHMA). In this report, JOEL DUKU examines the substantial impact this agency has made since its inception, exploring the growing number of beneficiaries, the extent of coverage and the unwavering commitment of the government to ensure its success

    Establishment and objectives

    Established in June 2017, the Yobe Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (YOCHMA) prides itself on the primary objective of fast-tracking the attainment of Universal Health Coverage by providing access to quality healthcare for civil servants and reducing their out-of-pocket expenditure in the state. The agency’s inception marked a milestone in the state’s healthcare sector, as it aimed to alleviate the burden of medical expenses for public servants and their dependents.

    Number of benefiting civil servants

    Over the past six years, the YCHMA has made significant progress in expanding its coverage and reach. As of the latest available data, more than 96 per cent of civil servants and their family members have enrolled as beneficiaries of YOCHMA. This development has not only improved the health and well-being of these public servants but also eased their financial strain in terms of medical expenses.

    Coverage of health facilities

    One of the key achievements of the YOCHMA is the establishment of a vast network of health facilities under its coverage. The agency has partnered with numerous public and private healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics and primary healthcare centres to ensure a comprehensive healthcare system for its beneficiaries.

     Currently, the YOCHMA covers over 300 health facilities across the state, thus ensuring that beneficiaries have access to medical services in both urban and rural areas. The Yobe State University Teaching Hospital (YSUTH), the state specialist’s hospital, all the general hospitals across the state and 178 primary healthcare centres are all facilities that are being used by YOCHMA.

    Commendations from other agencies

    The YOCHMA’s efforts and achievements have not gone unnoticed by other agencies and stakeholders in the healthcare sector.

     In the circumstances, the agency has received commendations from the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) for its effective implementation of health programmes and commitment to improving healthcare access for civil servants. These recognitions have further bolstered the agency’s reputation and motivated it to continue its endeavours in expanding healthcare coverage. During the 50-year celebration of the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC), YOCHMA received an award for being the most impactful agency in the state.

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    Commitment of Yobe State Government

    One of the critical factors contributing to the YOCHMA’s success is the unwavering commitment of the Yobe State Government to the agency’s mission. Since its establishment, the government has allocated substantial funds and resources to support the agency’s operations and ensure that it operates seamlessly. This commitment is evident in the timely disbursement of funds to healthcare providers and consistent monitoring of the agency’s performance to maintain transparency and accountability.

    The Executive Secretary’s role

    The Executive Secretary of the YOCHMA, Dr. Babagana Tijani has played a pivotal role in the agency’s growth and impact. Dr. Tijani has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the healthcare sector’s challenges. Under his guidance, the agency has achieved remarkable milestones, including the expansion of its coverage, successful partnerships with healthcare providers and the implementation of innovative healthcare programmes.

     His commitment to the agency’s vision and mission has garnered recognition from various stakeholders and has earned the agency’s trust and respect for both the healthcare community and the beneficiaries.

     Due to the commitment of the agency’s Chief Executive, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation have committed N229 million and N30 million respectively for the enrollment of more vulnerable people in the scheme for the state.

     “I am happy that the Agency has created a huge awareness base in the state which has caused the enrollment of 96 per cent of the population of civil servants.

     “Our major concern is that we have zero-tolerance for out-of-stock in our facilities,” Dr. Tijani said.

    Impact on healthcare accessibility

     The establishment of the Yobe Contributory Healthcare Management Agency has had a transformative effect on healthcare accessibility for civil servants and their families.  According to the Yobe State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Mohammed Gana, YOCHMA has strengthened the quality of healthcare delivery services.

     “Beneficiaries of the scheme now have access to a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, consultations, diagnostics, and treatment, without enduring financial hardship,” Dr Gana said.

    Reduction in out-of-pocket expenses

    Dr Gana also said that the scheme has significantly reduced out-of-pocket expenditures on the civil servants. “Before the agency’s implementation, civil servants had to bear the brunt of medical costs, leading to significant financial strain on their families. However, with the introduction of the YOCHMA’s contributory healthcare system, civil servants now contribute a portion of their salaries towards their healthcare coverage and the government provides subsidies to cover the remaining expenses. This has not only eased the financial burden on beneficiaries but has also encouraged more civil servants to seek timely medical attention, thereby preventing health issues from escalating into more severe conditions,” the commissioner said.

    Its impact on the system

    The YOCHMA’s collaboration with various healthcare providers has not only increased the number of covered facilities but has also encouraged investments in healthcare infrastructure.

     As the demand for quality healthcare services increased, many health facilities upgraded their equipment and services to meet the required standards for inclusion in the agency’s network. This improvement in healthcare infrastructure has had a ripple effect on the entire state, benefitting not just the beneficiaries of YOCHMA but also the general public.

    The YOCHMA’s focus on preventive care and maternal health has shown promising results. The agency has implemented programmes to ensure regular antenatal care for expectant beneficiaries, leading to a reduction in maternal mortality rates.

     Additionally, access to quality pediatric care has resulted in improved child health outcomes, including increased immunisation rates and better management of childhood illnesses. The agency’s efforts in these areas have been recognised by national and international health organisations and have contributed to the overall improvement of healthcare indicators in Yobe State.

     On the impact of the scheme, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Yobe State Specialist Hospital Damaturu, Dr. Usman Abba Geidam said it has created access to healthcare services in the state, improved facilities at the hospitals and improved training of members of staff.

     His words: “Look at this facility, (Sani Abacha Specialist Hospital Damaturu) as big as we are, our monthly overhead from the government of Yobe State is N125,000. That is what the hospital management board gives us every month to run the affairs of the entire hospital and we cannot overcharge patients for the services that we render.

     “As a result of what YOCHMA does, the number of patients coming to the hospital has increased. This means that more citizens are accessing more healthcare services through the YOCHMA scheme.

     “So, you can see that we make some profit out of that business partnership that we have with YOCHMA. We use the proceeds to develop our skills and the facilities at the hospital because YOCHMA clients can be admitted to any ward of the hospital. So, we make sure that those wards are maintained to the best standard for our clients.

     “We also use part of the money for training and the re-training of the members of staff which is crucial. During the 129 days that I have been the Chief Medical Director of this hospital, we have had four different training sessions from YOCHMA. We trained the entire nurses’ leadership, 47 of them who are heading units. We invited a consultant who trained them and everything that was required was presented to them.

    “Imagine a security man who earns N32,000 and has one wife and seven children and he is contributing just 1,100. His deduction of five hears cannot afford him surgery but with YOCHMA, he can afford that comfortably. If you go to YOCHMA clinic, it is the most crowded because there is access,” the CMD said.

     During a visit to the YOCHMA clinic which is located within the specialist hospital Damaturu, this reporter saw a number of families who came to access the services of the Agency.

    Those who spoke with this reporter attested to how the scheme has almost made them feel they are accessing free medical care.

     “My three children developed a fever. I brought them here for medical care. They were treated free because YOCHMA has already paid from my monthly contribution. I do not feel it at all. It looks as though everything is free,” Mustapha, a resident of Damaturu said.

     “We are no longer afraid to come to the hospital because YOCHMA has got me covered,” Abdullahi said.

     Hajiya Ladidi with her two daughters was leaving the facility when the reporter met them at the exit door. She was overheard telling a man who apparently was her husband that “this YOCHMA scheme is the best thing that this government has done for us the talakas (common people). “Look at the drugs and the treatment we received and we are walking away as if it’s free.” Her husband replied “Gaskiya ne Hajiya!”

    Future prospects

    Looking ahead, the YOCHMA has ambitious plans to further expand its coverage and improve the quality of healthcare services for its beneficiaries. The agency aims at increasing the number of partner healthcare facilities, particularly in underserved rural areas, to ensure equitable access to healthcare services.

     In addition, the YOCHMA plans to introduce more specialised healthcare programmes and health awareness campaigns to promote preventive care and disease management,” the Executive Secretary, Dr. Babagana Tijani said.

    In conclusion, the Yobe Contributory Healthcare Management Agency has proven to be a game-changer in the healthcare landscape of Yobe State. By providing accessible and affordable healthcare for civil servants, the agency has improved health outcomes, reduced financial burden and demonstrated the potential of a contributory healthcare model.

      The commitment of the Yobe State Government under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni and the exemplary leadership of the Executive Secretary of the YOCHMA continues to pave the way for a healthier and more prosperous future for its beneficiaries, setting an example for other states in Nigeria to emulate.

  • Fed Govt set to improve healthcare

    Fed Govt set to improve healthcare

    – Fertility expert: digitalise healthcare 

    Federal Government will improve healthcare, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Tunji Alausa, has said when he visited Federal Medical Centre, Ebute Meta, Lagos.

     Alausa hailed services provided by the facility, saying: “I’m impressed, this hospital compares to best hospitals in the world. FMC, Ebute Meta, is providing amazing services at subsidised rate. I commend the management and staff for their efforts”.

    Managing Director, Dr. Adedamola Dada said the visit is timely as he has identified their weaknesses and challenges.

    “Dr. Alausa has seen the challenges we are facing’’ and this will enable him to determine where his office can assist; he said the facility lacks adequate human power.

    “We havecompleted infrastructure but no manpower (human resources).There has been challenges in retaining work force.”

    This, he said, has affected the facility’s capacity in delivery.

    “It has affected our capacity in terms of the number of patients we can handle. I’m excited at the solutions the minister is profounding and steps he’s planning to take so we can deliver better in the new agenda of Mr President”, he said

     Digital innovation in healthcare is the future and it is happening, Prof. Oladapo Ashiru, has said.

     This was the thrust of University of Lagos College of Medicine’s 61st Founders Day Lecture and 17th edition of Horatio Oritsejolomi Thomas.

     Ashiru urged government to fund medical research, activate Nigeria Medical Institute Bill, resuscitate ICT centres, provision for Internet of things (IoT) and upgrade to 5G network.

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     “The future of digital innovation in healthcare and medical education is promising. Artificia Iintelligence is in the forefront with its potential to revolutionise healthcare delivery,” he said.

     Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said digital health is a broad, multidisciplinary aspect that refers to use of information and communications technologies in medicine and others to manage illness and promote wellness.

    University of Lagos (UNILAG) Vice Chancellor, Prof Folashade Ogunsola, described Thomas as loving and generous.

     Provost, Prof. David Adewale Oke, noted the college has laid a track record of its mandate of teaching, research and service.

     “It is up to us to uphold HOT’s legacy and  continue to build, lead, advance and improve our community making it different from the one our founding fathers inhabited nearly 60 years ago.”