Oyo revitalizes 66 PHCs to boost healthcare delivery
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo
Oyo State Government has announced plans to upgrade 66 Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) acorss the State with at least two facilities in each of the 33 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
Speaking at a critical stakeholders’ meeting in Ibadan, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi emphasized that the revitalization of PHCs is a fundamental step in improving healthcare system at the grassroots level.
Ajetunmobi, in a statement signed by the commissioner for Information and orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade emphasized the importance of community involvement in sustaining these facilities, urging stakeholders to take ownership and support the initiative.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of First Health Dynamic Synergy International Limited, Professor Temitope Alonge, explained that three key criteria were used in selecting the PHCs for upgrade in each LGA.
He said, “The first criteria is the patient load. The two PHCs serving the largest population in each LGA were prioritized. The second criteria is category 2 or 3 PHCs, while the third criteria is for facilities with an existing borehole and an alternative power source.”
Alonge noted that the project will involve both infrastructural improvements and provision of medical equipment such as installation of a 10KVA solar inverter system and boreholes to ensure uninterrupted power and water supply The medical equipment supply of essential medical devices will include autoclave machines with gas cylinders, among others. The upgrade will also include the implementation of a Drug Revolving Fund to ensure a steady supply of essential medicines. Security enhancement of the facilities will also be included in the upgrade.
He urged Ward Development Committees (WDCs) and PHC Coordinators to take responsibility for the facilities, stressing that they belong to the communities rather than the Primary Healthcare Board. He emphasized that a shift in mindset towards ownership and accountability would be crucial in maintaining improved centers.
He added that the same meeting would be replicated in other zones across the state for the WDC Chairmen and PHC Coordinators.
