L-R: Cross River Commissioner of Health, Dr. Inyang Asibong (4th); Cross River chapter chairman of NMA, Dr. Effiong Nkpanam during the physicians' week in Calabar
Photo credit: Obaji Akpet photography
Obaji Akpet|27 October 2016
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Cross River Chapter says the current economic condition Nigeria is faced with has made it difficult for people to access health facilities.
The state chairman of NMA, Dr. Effiong Nkpanam in an interview with Daily Champion correspondent during 'Physicians' week' held in Calabar said Nigeria's frail economy has badly affected the general public access to quality healthcare delivery. The Health considered the theme 'Health care in a frail economy: challenges and way forward.'
According to Nkpanam "In the frail economy it's been very difficult, people can't pay bills; people can't do anything."
He however hoped that if the implementation of the health act currently being deliberated at the National Assembly comes to fruition more money will be made available to make the system viable.
The Cross River NMA boss however ruled out plans of its members embarking on strike if the health act is not passed, even as he averred that the union will rather continue to engage in dialogue with the federal government.
Speaking at the event, as guest of honour, the state Commissioner of Health, Dr. Inyang Asibong said the current state government administration led by Senator Ben Ayade with an apt state insurance scheme and a state health act christened 'Ayadecare' was doing all in its power to cushion high expense on healthcare in the state.
"The Cross River Government led by Prof. Ben Ayade is very committed to making sure physicians are carried along in every state health issue," Asibong said.
Adding that at the moment the state had adopted twelve doctors for internship, even as the state has begun employing doctors on contract basis, whom amongst them are retired but are being recalled because of their expertise.
The commissioner also announced that she has taken delivery of the state health act from the national assembly, which she hopes the Governor will buy into.
"My primary concern, which is the public health is also dwelled upon; it's something we have discussed with the governor and know that he's definitely going to buy into this health act," Asibong added.
Obaji Akpet
Writes from Calabar
