NMA to Hold Solidarity Walk 26th of October
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and affiliates are set to hold a solidarity walk on the 26th of October. The work would be aimed at demanding the implementation of the National Health Act, which as been in the walk with the Federal Government since 2014.
Speaking to journalists at a press briefing, the NMA President, Dr. Mike Ogirima, said the walk is part of the annual Physicians week, which started on the 23rd of this month and would end on the 29th of the month, will address challenges being experienced during present recession in the country.
Dr. Ogirima said that this year's theme "health care delivery in a frail economy: challenges and the way forward" is not just aimed at asking the Federal Government to implement the National health Act (NHA) but also to draw attention on the impact of the economic recession currently being faced by the country as it affects health care delivery system and proffer solutions and suggestions for possible implementation by Government, Individuals and Corporate Organizations.
He also said that the "NMA and her members are facing ethical challenges arising from the Act since it was signed into law in 2014. Such as non provisions of certificate of standards and not less than 1% of the consolidated revenue for the Basic Health Provision Fund as provided in the Act.
He mentioned some other of the challenges being faced by health practioners across the country :Low out of pocket purchases of essential health care needs by citizens of Nigeria; Infrastructural decay of health facilities across the country; Low budgetary provisions by all tiers of Government for the Health Sector; Slow progress of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS);
He commended the President Muhammadu Buhari, and all parties involved in securing the release of 21 of the missing chibok girls. And called on the Federal Government to secure the release of the remaining girls. While draw their attention to the mental and physical state of the girls, and their willingness to help.
" the NMA wishes to draw the attention of Government to the negative impacts of the psychological trauma and health challenges facing the released Chibok girls. We are ready to partner in providing Voluntary Specialist Health Care Services to all the released Chibok girls through our members across the country.
NMA is the umbrella body of all Physicians and Dental Surgeons duly registered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and practicing in Nigeria and the diaspora.