The state of Nigerian healthcare

I have just read an article by Mr Simon Kolawole of Thisday newspaper. Truth be told, I am not impressed by either Mr Kolawole's style or the newspaper's editorial rigour but he gave a very clear picture of many people's experience of the Nigerian healthcare system and hopefully ignited debate on the subject. There are very few people who will disagree that the system is in shambles and needs to be overhauled. No better signal of this is required than the fact that political leaders choose to get healthcare outside the country. Contrast that with the US where a Presidential candidate gets flack for owning foreign made cars.

There are several responses to the article that share the personal experiences of readers. In particular, I read of one person's loss of a limb in part because of what appears to be professional neglect and lack of resources. Just makes me wonder why it is so easy in our society to ignore the value of life.

Things just can't continue this way much longer. There has to be a change in the mindset somewhere along the line. People have to demand more and maybe a first step is for the media to mount a campaign on the entire health care system and make it the subject of conversation for the next 6 months to a year. If leaders will not lead in this matter, then maybe they should be led by others. The press can investigate the activities of the ministries and the government departments and make people uncomfortable with their actions. Professional bodies can start to demand more of their members in the quality of service they provide. The legal profession can influence creation of laws that punish the culprits for their failings. Patients can stop accepting bad service and either walk with their feet or be prepared to seek redress.

And I can continue to pursue my goal of transforming healthcare in Nigeria...