By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

|

The Ondo State House of Assembly has charged the management of health facilities in the state not to compromise standards in delivering effective healthcare services to the people.

The House Committee on Health gave the charge during a visit to the State Specialist Hospital, Oke-Aro, and the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Akure.

The Committee, which went around both facilities to get first-hand information about their condition, said all hands must be on deck to ensure efficient service delivery.

The Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Christopher Ogunlana, who led other members to the facilities, advised health workers not to display terrible attitudes towards patients, especially those in critical condition, to avoid loss of lives.

While appreciating the management of both facilities for putting in their best efforts, he promised that the House would give legislative backing to the facilities to further give them a facelift.

The lawmakers stressed the need for a comprehensive report on what is needed, noting that it would aid the Committee’s job seamlessly during legislation.

The Committee advised that concerted efforts should be put into the ORANGHIS in ensuring people access adequate and quality healthcare at any given time.

They observed that the health sector is generally facing a shortage of personnel due to the “Japa syndrome,” and encouraged health workers to continue doing their best towards improving healthcare delivery.

Earlier, the Chief Medical Director of Oke-Aro, Dr. Ireti Eniowo, said despite the challenges, the hospital is ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare to the people.

While highlighting activities and challenges at the facility, she said the shortage of manpower, some obsolete equipment, and epileptic power supply are major challenges bedeviling the facility, noting that the Committee’s visit is timely.

Also, the Acting Medical Director of UNIMED Teaching Hospital, Dr. Adesina Akintan, while welcoming the Committee, said it is an opportunity for the House to know what they are doing in terms of social services to the people.

The Acting Medical Director, who commended the state government for its efforts to ensure universal healthcare coverage, pointed out that the 250-bed building, when completed, would further accommodate more patients.