The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has unveiled a comprehensive medical palliative scheme to tackle pressing healthcare challenges.
The scheme, aimed at providing immediate relief to patients, ensures that every treatment, including medicines and tests, is offered free of charge for a limited period. It was launched at the Gwarinpa General Hospital on Wednesday in Abuja.
Highlighting the dire economic conditions that compel patients to choose between food and medication, the mandate secretary, Health and Environment, FCT, Dr Dolapo Fasawe, emphasised the essence of medical palliatives. “A palliative means treating symptoms or providing a temporary solution before the overarching problem is resolved,” she explained.
“We realise that many patients are falling ill because their limited resources are directed toward food instead of necessary medicines,” she added.
The initiative, backed by a sustainable plan approved by the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, is funded through the FCT Health Insurance Scheme for the vulnerable.
Dr Fasewe expressed confidence in the scheme’s sustainability and encouraged patient registration to ensure ongoing access to free healthcare.
Every patient at Gwarinpa General Hospital will receive free tests, treatments, and surgeries during this period. “This isn’t something we can do daily, but providing medicines for two months can help patients allocate funds for other essentials,” Dr. Fasewe noted.
The minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, lauded the FCTA and the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare collaboration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.
He detailed ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare, including the recent inauguration of the National Emergency Medical Transportation Committee and the expansion of primary healthcare centres.
Pate also stressed the importance of educating the public on seeking professional antenatal care, combating harmful traditional practices, and promoting breastfeeding. “Health is a unifying factor for all Nigerians, and we must work together to improve the well-being of our nation,” he stated.
The medical palliative scheme is a significant step in alleviating the healthcare burden on Nigerians, promising a healthier future through sustained government and community efforts.
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