The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated a nationwide assessment of hospitals across the country as part of its ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services and ensure affordable, accessible healthcare for all Nigerians. The move is aimed at identifying areas of improvement within the healthcare system, enhancing the quality of care, and addressing the financial barriers that many Nigerians face in accessing medical services.
Minister of Health, Dr. Olorunmbe Akinwunmi, revealed that the assessment is part of a broader strategy to implement long-term reforms in the healthcare sector, which would prioritize the affordability and availability of essential medical services. He emphasized that this is an essential step toward meeting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal of Universal Health Coverage.
"We are committed to delivering quality healthcare to every Nigerian. This hospital assessment will identify gaps in service delivery, infrastructure, and access to medications, and ultimately guide our policies to ensure that healthcare services are affordable and available to all citizens, regardless of their economic status," Dr. Akinwunmi stated.
The Federal Government’s health reforms are designed to provide a sustainable healthcare model that includes improved primary healthcare facilities, expanded insurance coverage, and more investment in health infrastructure. This initiative is expected to benefit millions of Nigerians, particularly those in underserved and rural areas.
The assessment will be carried out in phases, with the first phase focusing on hospitals in urban areas, followed by an evaluation of healthcare facilities in rural regions. The results of this assessment will shape future policies and funding priorities to create a more effective and inclusive healthcare system.
The government is also exploring partnerships with both local and international organizations to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services, while ensuring that patients are not burdened by high medical costs.