The Edo State Government has introduced a new policy making malaria testing and treatment free in all government hospitals across the state. This move aims to improve access to healthcare for residents, particularly those who may not have been able to afford these services previously. The policy was announced by Dr. Andrew Iyamu, Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo on Health, during the state government's monthly briefing in Benin City.
According to Dr. Iyamu, the governor approved the policy to ensure that residents can access malaria treatment without financial constraints. The arrangement is set to last for two years, after which the policy will be reviewed. This initiative is part of the government's efforts to improve healthcare delivery and tackle substandard health facilities, quackery, and fake drugs. The government has also taken steps to renovate and upgrade existing health facilities.
The Edo State Government has renovated a total of 65 Primary Health Care Centres across the 18 local governments and 35 Secondary Health Centres. One of the notable renovations is the Eneghede General Hospital, which had been moribund for 19 years. The hospital has undergone renovation, and work is ongoing on the doctors' quarters. Additionally, the government has recruited about 1,000 health workers to boost the healthcare workforce.
Dr. Iyamu also revealed that the late Special Adviser to Governor Okpebholo on Arewa, Alhaji Danjuma Garba, died as a result of treatment he received from a fake doctor. This incident highlights the need for the government's efforts to tackle quackery and fake drugs. The government is working to eliminate fake drugs and middlemen in the pharmaceutical industry.
Princess Kenny Okojie, Executive Secretary of the Edo State Drugs and Health Commodity Agency, disclosed that the state government had renovated all its drug warehouses constructed during the administration of the late General Samuel Ogbemudia, which had become dilapidated. The government is working with Chinese investors to produce drugs for local use and sales to neighboring states.
The partnership with Chinese investors aims to boost local production of drugs and reduce reliance on imported medications. The government plans to supply drugs to the private sector and eliminate fake drugs and middlemen in the pharmaceutical industry. This initiative is expected to improve access to quality and affordable medications for residents.
The introduction of free malaria testing and treatment, renovation of health facilities, and efforts to tackle quackery and fake drugs demonstrate the Edo State Government's commitment to improving healthcare delivery in the state. The government's initiatives are expected to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of residents.
Key points
- The Edo State Government has made malaria testing and treatment free in all government hospitals.
- The government has renovated 65 Primary Health Care Centres and 35 Secondary Health Centres.
- The government is working with Chinese investors to produce drugs for local use and sales to neighboring states.
