TheCable

The Association of Residents Doctors (ARD) in the federal capital territory (FCT), Abuja, has called for an overhaul of the Nigeria health system to address the problem of brain drain.

Rahman Olayinka, the president of the FCT chapter of ARD, spoke in Abuja on Monday while briefing journalists on the activities to commemorate the association’s 2023 health week.

The theme of the weeklong event is ‘The state of Nigeria’s health care system: An Update”.

Olayinka expressed concerns that at least five members of the association relocate to other countries every week in search of better welfare packages and a conducive working environment.

“On a weekly basis, about five to 10 of our members leave Nigeria to other countries that offer better packages,” NAN quoted him as saying.

“The advocacy is for improved welfare packages. Health workers are leaving because they get a better welfare package, a good working environment, and a proper healthcare system, including good insurance coverage for their families.

“We are, therefore, calling for a total overhaul of the healthcare system in the country to reverse the trend.”

He said there is a need to review the state of Nigeria’s healthcare system to an appreciable standard in line with the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.

Olayinka said the ARD health week provides an opportunity to discuss topical issues that would improve the health sector in the country.

He said issues to be discussed during the week include the unresolved crisis in the health system, the role of government and society for a better healthcare system, medical victimisation and bullying of medical doctors.