By Awhawha Awhawha
The Delta State Government has assured health workers of its readiness and openness to discuss key health care issues that would lead to the improvement of health care delivery services in all its health institutions across the State.
The Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme gave the assurance in his office during a courtesy visit by the Executive of the National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP), Delta State Chapter.
He acknowledged the critical role of general medical and dental practitioners in the state’s healthcare system and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns. He assured the delegation of ongoing efforts to enhance the working conditions of health workers and improve healthcare delivery across Delta State.
The Commissioner stated that Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori as a labour friendly Governor had never failed to domesticate in the State health policies being implemented at the Federal level geared towards the overall wellbeing of its citizenry.
He added that only recently the State Government approved the sum of N1.6bn of equity plan to the hospitals through the Contributory Health Scheme as this action will make available certain percentage of funds at the disposal of these hospitals for maintenance among other needs.
Dr. Onojaeme disclosed that until recently only Central Hospital Agbor trains House Officers but now Ughelli and Sapele have gotten approvals to train House Officers and also government has approved the employment of 40 House Officers to address to an extent the shortfalls of doctors due to their exit abroad for better remuneration.
He assured that this administration will not spare any efforts to ensure it continues to attract and also keep its health work force from leaving the State government employ to other climes which currently is a national challenge.
Earlier, the Delta State Chairman, National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP), Dr. Joseph Iyasele expressed appreciation for the State Government’s continued efforts in strengthening the healthcare system and highlighted areas requiring attention, including welfare improvements for medical professionals, infrastructure upgrades, and enhanced medical training programmes.