In response to the challenges posed by the “Japa” syndrome (brain drain) affecting the healthcare sector, the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre in Ebute Metta, Lagos, Dr. Adedamola Dada, outlines proactive measures. The hospital is actively encouraging retired specialists, creating an enabling environment to retain existing staff, and recruiting new personnel to address resignations.
Despite acknowledging the impact of brain drain, Dr. Dada emphasizes that the hospital has designed programs to ensure continuity and minimize disruptions in patient care. The utilization of retired specialists, who are still active and skilled, has been a key strategy in maintaining service levels.
Addressing the cost of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment, Dr. Dada suggests that increasing the volume of patients seeking IVF services can potentially reduce costs. The hospital aims to contribute to this by treating a significant number of patients, leveraging economies of scale to obtain consumables at a better rate and, consequently, reducing the overall cost of IVF.
Discussing the broader issue of quackery in healthcare, Dr. Dada highlights the importance of creating access to healthcare through national health insurance. He emphasizes that once access is improved, fewer individuals will resort to untrained practitioners, reducing complications and improving overall healthcare outcomes.
Regarding the prediction of losing 50% of healthcare workers by 2025, Dr. Dada expresses confidence in the ability to address the challenge by improving the economic environment, remuneration, and creating strategic advantages to retain healthcare professionals. He believes in focusing on the positive aspects and improving the overall economy to retain skilled workers.
Reflecting on his six years as the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Dada notes the transformation of the Federal Medical Centre into an efficient public health institution. The hospital has expanded its facilities, increased bed capacity, and enhanced the quality of services. Challenges, including human resources and infrastructure development, were addressed through strategic planning and technological advancements.
Despite facing challenges in phases, Dr. Dada remains optimistic about the future and the hospital’s continued growth. The recent commissioning of a new building further expands the hospital’s capacity, enabling it to offer additional services, such as IVF and ophthalmology, to meet the healthcare needs of the community.
As healthcare institutions grapple with various challenges, proactive measures and strategic planning, as exemplified by the Federal Medical Centre in Lagos, play a crucial role in ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services.
