By Our Reporter
A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Brain and Spine Foundation Africa, has advocated for more government attention and investment in neurological healthcare in the country.
The Founder and Chief Executive Director of Brain & Spine Foundation, Chika Okwuolisa, made the call at a media briefing on the state of neurological emergencies and healthcare in Nigeria, on Monday.
She regretted that the near-neglect of the neurological healthcare in the country was “a reflection of the broader neglect of the healthcare eco system as a whole.”
She, therefore, called on well-to-do Nigerians to consider directing a portion of their philanthropic efforts towards initiatives that focus on neurological healthcare.
Okwuolisa regretted that 70 percent of deaths arising from accidents in the country was due largely to brain and spinal conditions of the victims.
According to her: “The exorbitant costs of treatment render them inaccessible to a significant portion of our population and many who visit hospital are often forced to go home without treatment nor medication.
“These health crises are undeniably intertwined with the pervasive economic hardships experienced by our citizens. Regrettably, our hospitals grapple with a disconcerting vacuum as a considerable number of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses and doctors, opt to relocate abroad.
“This mass exodus leaves over 230 million Nigerians at the mercy of a depleted healthcare workforce. This situation translates into a heavy workload for many physicians especially, as more are packing their bags even as we speak.
“There are hundreds of unnecessary and avoidable deaths happening daily, especially from neurological emergencies, including our doctors who die saving lives.”
She further noted that: “This stark reality underscores the imperative for a comprehensive government intervention — not only to address the immediate healthcare needs of our citizens but also to implement measures that will retain and attract healthcare professionals, ensuring the resilience and efficiency of our healthcare system.
“We urgently call on the government, particularly through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Development, to prioritize and address the escalating issue of neurological emergencies. Emphasizing the importance of public awareness, we advocate for substantial investments in educating the public on preventive measures. This proactive approach is crucial in curbing the rising crises.
“Timely diagnosis and treatment are imperative, and public education serves as a vital tool in ensuring prevention, early recognition and intervention.
“Neurological emergencies are life-threatening central nervous system conditions, they are common and affects both children and adults. The sequelae may be irreversible and may impact negatively on the quality of life of affected individuals and their families.
“Unfortunately, more than 70% of Nigerians requiring neurological emergency attention are unable to access treatment due to a multitude of challenges,” she added.
While appealing on the Senate President, Most Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, to, as a matter of urgency, facilitate the support for care of patients who need help, she disclosed that: “Over the years, our organization has tirelessly worked towards creating massive awareness of neurological emergencies and conditions.
“However, despite our efforts, we have been hindered by a severe lack of financial resources. This has prevented us from making the impactful strides we desire.”
