A team for the implementation of the ongoing COVID-19 Respond Mechanism/Resilient and Sustainable System for Health (C19RM/RSSH) has called for closer monitoring of healthcare providers to ensure that services meant to be free are not charged for.
The call was made during a media briefing convened by Network of People Living with HIV/AIDs in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), Tuberculosis (TB) and Association of Civil Society Organizations on Malaria (ACOMIN) (ATM) in Uyo on Friday.
The C19RM/RSSH project, funded by a grant from the Global Fund, through the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Program (NTBLCP) aims at supporting efforts of government in strengthening healthcare system in the health centers for prevention and treatment of diseases in communities.
The program also seeks to identify significant challenges facing Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) in Akwa Ibom State and address gaps in the system and infrastructures through strategic intervention and mobilization of benefiting communities.
Addressing the media, NEPWHAN coordinator, Mrs Elizabeth Udo regretted that efforts to make healthcare assessable and free for some had been hampered by certain healthcare providers who have continued to impose charges on classes of persons designated for free treatment.
She explains that the C19RM/RSSH) project seeks to enhance healthcare delivery in communities, particularly focusing on diseases like HIV/AIDS, Malaria, and Tuberculosis (TB). Key priorities include gender-based violence prevention, community-led monitoring, and advocacy, alongside capacity building initiatives to strengthen health systems.
Currently operational in 21 states, including Akwa Ibom, the project, according to Mrs Udo is implemented by ATM Networks across five local government areas (LGAs) in the state: Eket, Essien Udim, Ibesikpo Asutan, Oron, and Uyo. covering 15 wards and 15 health facilities. It aims to bridge gaps in healthcare provision exacerbated by challenges such as inadequate staffing, equipment shortages, frequent stockouts of essential medicines, high treatment costs, and security concerns.
Addressing some of the critical challenges confronting implementation of the project, the state coordinator, Association of Civil Society Organizations on Malaria (ACOMIN) Mr Godwin Udoh explained that the Pilot LGAs emerged through available data on need assessment.
He highlighted the following needs for immediate attention;
“Increased Funding for PHCs: Government officials and policymakers were urged to prioritize and enhance funding for PHCs. This financial support is essential to improve infrastructure, expand healthcare services, and ensure accessibility for all residents.
“Private and Philanthropic Support: Private organizations, philanthropic foundations, and individuals were called upon to augment government efforts by investing in PHCs. Such contributions are pivotal in extending healthcare reach and impact across underserved communities.
“Role of Religious Organizations: Religious leaders were encouraged to invest in primary healthcare and mobilize communities toward supporting local health initiatives. Their influence can significantly enhance community participation and ownership of healthcare services.
“Community Engagement: Active involvement of community members was highlighted as crucial for sustaining PHCs. Through volunteering, resource mobilization, and advocacy, communities can amplify their voices in demanding improved healthcare services.
On his part, the State Program Officer, Mr Wisdom Jacob applauded efforts by the Akwa Ibom State government to ensure a viable primary healthcare system in the state. He also applauded responses by communities within the pilot LGAs who had keyed into the project to improve healthcare delivery in their area.
He explained that the program is designed to mobilize communities to take ownership of medical facilities in their areas, maintain and ensure security, as well as mobilize philanthropists in such communities to support.
The stakeholders, including Uduak Umoh – Tuberculosis (TB) coordinator expressed optimism that concerted efforts and collaborative actions will lead to a resilient healthcare system in Akwa Ibom State, ultimately benefiting all residents.
They also called on media partners to amplify the issues raised, especially as it relates to charge by healthcare providers on services and medications meant to be free.