By Usman Muhammad Ameeer
The Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) is grappling with severe challenges, including shortages of experienced healthcare personnel, deplorable facilities, and inadequate basic amenities. These issues have prompted concerns about patient care and culminated in a tragic loss.
A disturbing incident underscores the hospital’s dire situation. A former Deputy Vice-Chancellor who was recently rushed to the hospital for treatment, was allegedly left unattended due to a lack of beds. Despite his critical condition, a bed was only provided after it was clear that he would not survive. This heartbreaking episode highlights the hospital’s catastrophic failure under Professor Hamidu Ahmed Umdagas’s leadership.
According to sources within the hospital, patients are often forced to seek medical attention elsewhere due to the institution’s inability to provide adequate care. “The hospital’s chronic challenges have left patients vulnerable to subpar care,” said a hospital staff member, who wished to remain anonymous.
Another nightmare faces patients requiring urgent attention: lengthy delays in receiving referral codes. These codes, essential for treatment, can take several hours or even days to be sent, leaving critically ill patients to suffer. This bureaucratic bottleneck exacerbates the hospital’s existing challenges.
Furthermore, NHIS patients face inadequate medication. While they receive cheaper drugs, they often must purchase expensive alternatives out-of-pocket. This financial burden compounds their health struggles.
ABUTH’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Hamidu Ahmed Umdagas, has faced criticism for his frequent absences from the hospital due to extensive travel. Staff members and observers allege that these travels have disconnected him from the hospital’s daily realities, hindering effective leadership.
“The CMD’s constant travels have taken a toll on the hospital’s administration,” said a staff member. “He’s often unavailable to address pressing issues, leaving decisions unmade and problems unsolved.”
Professor Umdagas has defended his travel, citing necessary official duties. However, critics argue that his absence exacerbates the hospital’s challenges.
Despite these challenges, the Chief Medical Director claims that he has achieved notable milestones under his stewardship which includes:
– Continuous Power Supply: Despite national challenges, the hospital has maintained a steady power supply.
– Functional Medical Equipment: The hospital boasts functional 2 MRI machines (0.2T and 1.5T) and a 120-slice CT machine.
– Ongoing Renovations: Wards are being renovated and expanded to improve patient care.
– International Collaboration: ABUTH is conducting a clinical trial worth over $1 million in collaboration with the University of Miami.
However, the hospital’s dilapidation remains a pressing concern, with estimated repairs costing ₦11 billion. Professor Umdagas attributed NHIA issues to Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), stating that ABUTH does not issue codes but rather HMOs do.
Staff members have expressed concerns about Professor Umdagas’ cleadership style, citing frequent absences and alleged disconnection from the hospital’s challenges. “The hospital needs stable leadership to address these challenges,” said another staff member.
Health experts are calling for urgent action to address ABUTH’s challenges. “The hospital’s challenges require immediate attention,” said a local health advocate. “Patients deserve quality care.”
The Nigerian government has been urged to invest in healthcare infrastructure and personnel. “The government must prioritize healthcare to prevent further deterioration of services,” said a healthcare expert.
ABUTH’s struggles have raised concerns about the state of Nigeria’s healthcare system. As the hospital continues to grapple with challenges, patients remain uncertain about their care.