…calls for collective efforts from health workers
… warns against having unqualified staff in critical units in the hospital
Dr. Abraham Inyangudoh, Permanent Secretary, Hospitals Management Board, has re-echoed Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to healthcare delivery, emphasizing that such is unwavering and requires the collective efforts of health workers to turn his vision into reality.
He made this statement during his recent unscheduled visit to Immanuel General Hospital, Dental Centre as well as the Eye Clinic in Eket, as part of the Board’s mandate to supervise the activities of state-owned secondary health facilities.
Dr. Inyangudoh, while interacting with staff of the hospital, reminded them that the Governor remains dedicated to ensuring that Akwa Ibom people have access to quality, affordable and effective healthcare services round the clock.
The Permanent Secretary issued a stern warning against having unqualified staff in critical hospital units. He emphasized that service rules would be strictly enforced, and culpable individuals would face consequences.
This directive followed the discovery of a clerical staff member performing duties reserved for a Laboratory Scientist at the Dental Centre. He promptly ordered immediate removal of test kits and medications from the unauthorized staff member and the Medical Superintendent to issue a query to address the infraction.
Additionally, the team engaged with patients across various units, gathering valuable feedback on their experiences. This feedback was subsequently shared with the hospital management during a debriefing meeting, aimed at identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary reforms.
Patients shared their concerns and suggestions for improvement, citing the need for private rooms to ensure confidentiality and comfort, mosquito nets to prevent insect-borne illnesses, reliable power supply and access to clean water within the facility and a well-stocked pharmacy with essential medications to reduce the burden of seeking external services.
The Board’s Boss accompanied by Board Directors, emphasized the importance of staff presenting themselves professionally at all times. He noted that patients not only expect excellent service but also take notice of staff appearance and behavior.
He warned against asking for gratification before service, adding that health workers are duty-bound to provide these services.
The Permanent Secretary further recommended the engagement of a consultant to oversee the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the hospital, noting that the unit has remained non-operational since its commissioning.
He also stressed the importance of proper record-keeping, accountability, and transparency in all units. During the team’s assessment of the hospital, they examined key areas including revenue generation, service quality, staffing levels, and compliance with protocols.
The Medical Superintendent, Dr. Idongesit Itaketo, assured that these issues would be tackled, even as he cited daunting challenges such as power and water shortages, as well as staffing deficiencies.
He also pleaded that key staff quarters should be provided to aid service delivery.
The inspection team conducted a comprehensive tour of the hospital’s facilities, visiting key units such as laboratory, scan department, Pharmacy, Accounts, health records unit and Intensive care unit.
Additionally, the team inspected various wards, including maternity ward, male and female wards, Accident and emergency ward.
