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 toured both facilities to get firsthand information about their conditions, 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 a terrible attitude towards patients, especially those in critical condition, to avoid loss of lives.

While appreciating the management of both facilities for their efforts, he promised that the House would give legislative backing to the facilities to further enhance them.

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

The committee advised that concerted efforts should be focused on ensuring people have access to 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 staff to continue doing their best to improve 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.

According to her, the management and staff are working as a team towards implementing government policies and programs.

While highlighting activities and challenges in the facility, she said that a shortage of manpower, some obsolete equipment, and an erratic power supply are major challenges facing 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.

Akintan expressed confidence that with unified efforts, the committee can make significant strides in addressing the healthcare challenges faced by the hospital.

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.

While noting that the hospital has improved in terms of services, with patients receiving adequate attention and necessary drugs, he added that the facility needs more equipment, better roads, and improved power supply.