Private medical institutions in Nigeria have been urged to reduce the high cost of their services in Nigeria. The appeal was made by President Buhari’s wife, Aisha Buhari during a courtesy visit by officials of the Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria to the State House on Wednesday April 11th.
Mrs. Buhari observed that many Nigerians who do not have access to public health services resort to private hospitals which are very expensive and this has implications on not just the patients but the nation’s health indices.
“Private health care is expensive, your association needs to revisit the issue of charges. Please make treatments affordable so that more people can access your services and health outcomes can improve” she said
Mrs Buhari also lamented the brain drain in the health sector, saying people travel abroad mostly to be treated by Nigerian practitioners. She asked for better working conditions for them so that they are encouraged to remain in Nigeria.
“I also urge your association to check cases of malpractice by private hospitals, which are becoming more rampant” Mrs Buhari said
She recommended a Public-Private partnership, whereby private sector firms can invest in the health sector and reduce the burden on government.
“That is why I am convening a stakeholder event soon, to draw their attention to the possibilities and opportunities in the sector.” she said
Source: lindaikejisblog.com
