Kogi state set to implement free emergency obstetrics care in 7 health facilities
In a groundbreaking effort to address Nigeria’s concerning maternal mortality rate, the federal government has initiated a program that offers free emergency obstetric care in seven selected health facilities across Kogi State. This initiative, funded by the Vulnerable Group Funds as outlined in the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, aims to alleviate the financial burden on families and ensure prompt, high-quality medical care for pregnant women.
The seven participating health facilities include:
– Prince Abubakar Audu University Teaching Hospital, Ayingba- Confluence University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, Okene- Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Lokoja- General Hospital, Ankpa- General Hospital, Okengwe- General Hospital, Kabba- General Hospital, Koton-karfe
These facilities will provide top-notch services, including family planning, to beneficiaries experiencing emergency obstetric maternal complications at no charge. This program is anticipated to benefit numerous women in Kogi State, especially those in rural areas with limited access to quality healthcare services.
Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, the Kogi State Commissioner of Health, said as we are progressing in our commitment to reduce maternal mortality in Nigeria. Regrettably, we currently hold the unenviable position of being second in the world in terms of maternal mortality rates.
Dr. Abdulazeez stressed the importance of providing quality emergency obstetric care to decrease the number of pregnant women who lose their lives during childbirth. The aim is to work towards a future where Nigeria can proudly declare that it has relinquished its second position in maternal mortality rates by 2027.
Dr. Olayemi Ayo ,the Chief Medical Director of the Kogi State Hospitals Management Board, also underscored the significance of personal responsibility in enhancing the quality of healthcare services. He said We need to personally take responsibility,work together to improve our healthcare system and stop putting blame on Government as Government is always overwhelmed with responsibilities.
In a landmark development, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed between health facilities, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), and a third-party administrator. This significant agreement aims to streamline healthcare services, ensuring efficient and quality care for beneficiaries
The medical directors of the selected facilities were present at a meeting held at the conference room of the state ministry of health, where the program was officially launched. This initiative is a significant step towards reducing the high maternal mortality rate in Kogi State and improving the overall healthcare system in the country.
