The Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP)has revealed that private hospitals are struggling to stay afloat due to the country’s economic downturn.
In an exclusive interview with DAILY POST in Abuja, ANPMP Chairman, Dr. Odia Festus Ihongbe, lamented that the economic situation has led to a surge in self-medication among Nigerians, resulting in organ failure and death.
“Morgues are filled with dead bodies, while hospital beds remain empty,” Dr. Ihongbe noted. “People only seek medical attention when it’s critical, expecting miracles. Some patients want to die in the hospital, possibly due to family conflicts.”
He emphasized that Nigerians now resort to googling symptoms and purchasing medication from chemists until their condition reaches a terminal stage.
“Sometimes, we’re forced to issue death certificates without admitting patients, as families may abandon bodies in our hospitals, claiming they need time to arrange burial funds,” Dr. Ihongbe explained.
“How can private hospitals afford the N70,000 minimum wage?” Dr. Ihongbe asked. “With eight to ten cleaners, that’s already N800,000. Who will bear this cost?”
He highlighted that private hospitals employ 80% of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, yet the government neglects to support the sector.
“We provide 80% of Nigeria’s healthcare services, but the government shows little concern for our development. They prioritize lip service over tangible support.”
The forex crisis has led to skyrocketing prices of essential drugs and hospital equipment.
“We struggle to purchase drugs and equipment as prices escalate daily,” Dr. Ihongbe said. “An oxygen machine that cost N25,000 years ago now costs over N1.5 to N2 million. How can we survive this?”
Dr. Ihongbe emphasized that the national health insurance scheme, which collapsed 20 years ago, is the key to an effective healthcare system.
“Nigeria’s medical system would thrive with a functional national health insurance,” he stated. “However, the current scheme covers only 4% of the population, and the recent increase from N500 to N700 is inadequate.”
He warned that without a functional health insurance system, Nigerians will continue to struggle to access healthcare.
“The alarming rate of deaths in Nigeria is disturbing,” Dr. Ihongbe said. “If we’re intentionally reducing the population through poor healthcare, let’s acknowledge it. Paracetamol now costs N7,000, and ordinary syringes cost over N7,000 per pack. We’re confused, and people are dying.”
Regarding the minimum wage, Dr. Ihongbe stressed that a functional health insurance system would enable hospitals to settle bills.
“If health insurance works, and the government pays promptly, hospitals can afford to pay staff,” he concluded.
