*Says its1,000kva generator consumes over 300 litres of diesel per hour.
By; BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan
Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University Teaching Hospital (UCH), Professor Jesse Otegbayo has said Nigerians can enjoy affordable healthcare facilities through universal healthcare.
Addressing a press conference to mark the 66th anniversary of the hospital on Monday, Professor Otegbayo said there is the need for the government to take some proactive steps for Nigerians to enjoy affordable healthcare facilities.
The CMD emphasized that one of the ways government can stop the increasing cost of access to good medical care in the country is by embracing universal health care and that government can embrace universal health care as being done abroad through health insurance scheme for the people.
Emphasizing that as being done in the United Kingdom, government can defray the cost of taking care of the people through health insurance scheme and deduct taxes from the beneficiaries and
that government should also give adequate attention to Primary Health Care (PHC) and get it fixed as a solution to the increasing cost of medical care.
He stressed that the people are procreating at an alarming rate far above the available medical facilities and its affordability.
Speaking on the challenges facing the hospital, Professor Otegbayo said concerning the incessant power cut, the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) should reconsider the payment of industrial tariffs being charged the hospital.
According to the CMD, UCH is operating as a non-profit making entity and, as such, should not be placed on industrial tarrif charges and that the rising cost of diesel is grossly affecting the running of the hospital as its 1000kva generator consumes over 300 litres of diesel per hour.
Professor Otegbayo highlighted other challenges facing to include water shortage, overhauling of the old sewer system constructed in 1952 and that the hospital’s areas of needs included building of a new dental clinic, students’ hostel accommodation, alternative power supply to areas of essential services among others .
On the 66th anniversary, the CMD pointed out the hospital has witnessed achievements under his leadership as the CMD, saying , “I make bold to say that under my watch, the University College, Ibadan has grown.”
“Today marks a momentous occasion as we gather to celebrate the 66th anniversary of our beloved institution’s sixty-six years of unwavering commitment to health, compassion and progress.As we reflect on the journey that brought here, we recognise the countless lives touched, healed, and transformed within these walls”, he said.
The CMD added, “Our hospital stands as a testament to the power of collective dedication and the enduring spirit of healthcare excellence.Over the years, we have witnessed tremendous advancements in medicine, technology and patient care. Through it all, our commitment to providing the highest standard of service has remained resolute,”
.
