Private Hospitals Urged to Collaborate for a Stronger Healthcare Sector

In a bid to address the challenges facing the health sector, the Nigeria Guild of Medical Directors (GMD) during its Annual General Meeting urged private hospitals to prioritise consolidation and collaboration over competition. Dr. Raymond Abiodun Kuti, a Consultant Radiologist and the National President of the Guild made this appeal while speaking on Saturday 29 June 2024 at Paelon Memorial Hospital, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Dr. Kuti highlighted the closure of 6-8 private hospitals in Maiduguri and other parts of Nigeria citing issues such as underpaying insurance and high electricity costs; noting that many of the hospitals served internally displaced persons who struggle to afford basic needs. “Rather than having thirty private hospitals, two to five private hospitals can come together to form a partnership; consolidation instead of competition,” Dr. Kuti emphasised.

Dr. Ngozi Onyia, the Public Relations Officer of the Guild noted that consolidation in the private health sector could reduce operating costs and address some of the industry’s challenges. Dr. Onyia added that sustainability is crucial and suggested a gradual approach to system correction; while advocating for privately managed public-private partnerships. Dr. Samuel Kayode Adebayo, Secretary of the Guild’s Lagos State Chapter called for an improved health insurance system, elimination of excessive taxation and the implementation of favourable government policies to support the healthcare system.

Dr. Olalekan Adegoke Adelakun, Publicity Secretary of the Guild, lamented the high electricity costs and the expensive procurement of drugs and equipment due to unfavourable government policies while suggesting the establishment of a dedicated bank for the health industry to ease access to funds. “We want friendly policies that promote the business of the healthcare system,” Dr. Adelakun stated. Addressing the misconception that health services are free, Dr Adelakun stressed that the public needs to understand the financial realities of healthcare.
The Guild’s call for consolidation aims to create a more sustainable and efficient health sector in Nigeria, capable of better serving the needs of the population amidst the ongoing challenges.

Aisha Sanni
Women Radio 91.7
news@wfm91.7