The Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA) is set to conduct a 10-day free medical outreach in Abia State from April 4 to 10, 2024. The initiative aims to enhance the state’s healthcare sector in collaboration with the government.
Jointly signed by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo, and the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Umuahia, Professor Azubuike Onyebuchi, the statement reveals that over 60 physicians and experts will participate.
During the outreach, free surgeries and treatments will be provided to patients at three designated centers: FMC Umuahia, Abia Diagnostic Centre, Umuahia, and Abia Specialist Hospital, Amachara, Umuahia.
To ensure the effectiveness of the mission, residents with health challenges are urged to undergo screening at designated offices in all 17 General Hospitals and health centers. The screening, sponsored by the State Government, will precede the arrival of the medical experts.
Patients selected for surgery will benefit from free transportation provided by the State Government to and from the designated centers, particularly for those from distant locations.
The statement emphasizes that only pre-screened patients will be attended to during the outreach, which includes complex cases such as cancer screenings. The collaboration between foreign doctors and Nigerian medical personnel, including House Officers, aims to transfer knowledge and build local capacity.
The initiative recognizes the commitment of Governor Dr. Alex Otti’s administration to the health sector, as evidenced by the allocation of 15% of Abia’s 2024 budget estimate to healthcare. The gesture underscores Governor Otti’s dedication to transforming the health sector, as demonstrated by the prompt renovation and upgrading of key medical facilities within the first six months of his administration.
ANPA’s decision to choose Abia for the medical mission acknowledges Governor Otti’s special attention to the health sector, exemplified by the restoration of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) accreditation of the Abia State University Medical College, lost under the previous administration.
