The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called for a holistic approach from the government at all levels to tackle the challenges facing the nation’s health sector.
Dr Emeka-Malachy Ayogu, NMA, FCT Chapter, made the call in Abuja on Monday while addressing newsmen on the upcoming FCT NMA Physicians Week.
Ayogu said providing the enabling environment for the workers in the sector to effectively discharge their responsibilities was key to fixing the challenges.
He said the association was saddened by the challenges which, according to him included brain drain, inadequate working tools and poor renumeration.
He said among other activities lined up for the Physicians Week, which started on Sunday with a thanksgiving service, was a conference during which experts would proffer in dept solution to the challenges.
Ayogu said that the theme for the conference is: “Ensuring Universal applicability in remuneration; a Panacea to Talent Retention in the Healthcare Industry”.
The chairman said that the chapter had mobilised a lot of experts knowing fully well that there were contemporary issues that needed to be address in the health sector.
He said that the conference would look at how doctors could be treated fairly, equitably and ensure inclusivity and be able to enjoy competitive wages and salaries among their peers.
He said that the conference will look at how an average doctor should be encouraged to remain and practice in the country.
The chairman said the conference would also look at the impact of infectious diseases such as monkeypox on the nation’s economy and health sector.
“The physicians week is meant to recognise the dedication, compassion and expertise of our members; we will use the opportunity to honour ourselves and the noble profession.
“It is an event that is usually carried out every year by NMA in all the chapters including FCT. The week is packed with impactful activities which includes going to the orphanage.
“The impression is to give back to the society. We are going to engage on medical outreach. It is designed to expand medical access to those who are less privileged.
“We are also going to undertake sporting activities which is aimed at taking care of the wellbeing the doctors and promoting the spirit of team work,” Ayogu said.
By Aderogba George, NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA