Specialist warns government to prevent healthcare system breakdown

The Federal Government is facing urgent calls to bolster investment in Nigeria's health sector, as inadequate funding threatens to exacerbate its decline. Dr Oluwatamilore Adeyemi, a medical expert, issued this plea on Monday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during a medical outreach programme that provided assistance to over 200 residents.

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The event featured free health checks for attendees, with 50 digital blood pressure machines also being distributed to patients, highlighting the importance of accessible healthcare in the community.

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Adeyemi voiced concerns that Nigeria's health system is deteriorating due to insufficient funding, a lack of equipment, and poor working conditions for health workers, which could have severe consequences if left unaddressed.

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She emphasized the need for both federal and state governments to prioritize the health sector in their budget planning, allocating more resources to hospitals and medical facilities to improve the overall quality of care.

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Adeyemi stressed that adequate funding and improved working conditions are crucial for retaining doctors and other health practitioners, many of whom are leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad.

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According to Adeyemi, increased investment in the health sector would not only improve working conditions but also encourage health practitioners to remain in the country, rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere.

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She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to give back to her community, stating that initiatives like the medical outreach programme are essential for detecting health issues early and promoting regular health monitoring.

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The medical expert noted that many individuals are unaware they have high blood pressure, often attributing symptoms to everyday stress, and that community medical outreaches can help identify these issues before complications arise.

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Adeyemi lamented that many people diagnosed with hypertension fail to adhere to their medication regimens, significantly increasing the risk of serious health complications.

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As part of the outreach programme, residents underwent blood pressure and blood sugar tests, and 50 digital blood pressure machines were distributed to selected beneficiaries to facilitate regular monitoring at home.

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Adeyemi explained that the programme was organized to address the issue of undiagnosed high blood pressure, as well as the lack of adherence to medication regimens among those who have been diagnosed.

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Mrs Abosede Ogundeyi, one of the beneficiaries of the programme, expressed her gratitude to the organizers and urged Nigerians to take their health more seriously.

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Ogundeyi advised people to regularly visit hospitals for medical check-ups and be more aware of their health status, rather than waiting until a serious issue arises before seeking medical attention.