Lokoja: The Chief Medical Director of the Kogi Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Ayo Olayemi, announced that the ongoing renovation of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across Kogi State is enhancing healthcare delivery and improving patient safety. This development comes as part of the state’s efforts to commemorate World Patient Safety Day, marked annually on September 17.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Olayemi highlighted that Governor Ahmed Ododo had overseen the renovation of three PHCs in each of the state’s 21 Local Government Areas, totaling 63 upgraded facilities. In addition to these renovations, seven new PHCs have been constructed in areas with large populations that previously relied on a single facility for primary healthcare services. These measures aim to increase access to quality healthcare and create safer environments for patients seeking medical attention.
Olayemi noted that the primary healthcare system in Kogi State is being strengthened, with the upgraded facilities expected to facilitate timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for patients. However, he identified human resources as a significant challenge within the health sector but expressed optimism that the situation would improve with ongoing government interventions.
He emphasized the importance of patients being aware of their rights and encouraged them to speak up if they have any uncertainties about their treatment or suspect an error during healthcare delivery. Olayemi pointed out that medical errors can occur at various stages, such as diagnosis, laboratory investigations, prescribing, dispensing, and treatment, necessitating vigilance from both healthcare providers and patients.
Medication errors were cited as a common example, with patients advised to seek clarification if they notice discrepancies in their medicines or dosages. Olayemi assured that healthcare facilities in Kogi have functional complaint systems for patients to report suspected errors or concerns, and he encouraged the use of the Servicom system or direct approach to the chief medical director for necessary intervention.
He stressed the importance of reviewing complaints to identify weaknesses, address gaps, and improve healthcare services across facilities. The World Patient Safety Day, established by the World Health Assembly in 2019, seeks to raise awareness and promote action on patient safety globally, with the 2026 theme focusing on ‘Safe care for non-communicable diseases.’
Olayemi concluded by expressing optimism that strengthening primary healthcare, improving infrastructure, and addressing human-resource gaps are crucial steps towards ensuring safer healthcare services for patients in Kogi. He affirmed that continued government commitment and the dedication of healthcare workers will lead to improved healthcare delivery and a positive transformation in the state’s healthcare landscape.