A Health Practitioner, Philip Tinubu, has called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare delivery, saying efficient hospital management remains the cornerstone for addressing the country’s persistent health sector challenges.
Tinubu noted that the nation’s healthcare system is plagued by inadequate infrastructure, poor resource allocation, shortage of skilled professionals and widespread systemic inefficiencies.
These shortcomings, according to him have eroded public trust and limited access to quality care.
Speaking with journalists in Ado-Ekiti, Tinubu argued that sound financial management, innovative financing mechanisms such as public-private partnerships and cost-saving initiatives like group purchasing could strengthen hospitals’ ability to deliver better care.
He also emphasized the need for operational efficiency, pointing to the adoption of electronic health records, improved patient flow systems and streamlined bed utilization as measures that could reduce waiting times, cut errors and improve the patient experience.
On workforce development, he said Nigerian hospitals must invest in training, fair remuneration, and a supportive work environment to attract and retain skilled professionals, especially in underserved communities.
His words, “Nigeria’s healthcare system faces a myriad of challenges, ranging from inadequate infrastructure and resource constraints to systemic inefficiencies and a shortage of skilled personnel. These challenges collectively contribute to poor health outcomes, limited access to quality care and a general lack of public trust in the healthcare system.
“However, amidst these challenges lies an opportunity for transformative change through the implementation of effective and efficient hospital management practices.
“Hospital management, as a discipline, encompasses the strategic planning, organization and coordination of all activities within a hospital setting. It involves the integration of clinical and administrative functions to ensure the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care in a cost-effective manner.
“In the context of Nigeria, where resources are scarce and healthcare needs are immense, effective hospital management is not merely desirable but essential for optimizing the use of available resources and improving the overall performance of the healthcare system.
“One of the key areas where effective hospital management can make a significant impact is in the optimization of resource allocation. Nigerian hospitals often struggle with limited budgets, inadequate supplies of essential medicines and equipment, and a shortage of qualified staff.
“Through the implementation of sound financial management practices, hospitals can improve their ability to generate revenue, control costs, and allocate resources in a manner that maximizes their impact on patient care. This may involve the adoption of innovative financing mechanisms, such as public-private partnerships, as well as the implementation of cost-saving measures, such as group purchasing and inventory management systems.
“In addition to financial management, effective hospital management also involves the implementation of robust operational systems and processes. This includes the streamlining of patient flow, the optimization of bed utilization, and the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs). By improving operational efficiency, hospitals can reduce waiting times, minimize errors, and enhance the overall patient experience.
“Another critical aspect of effective hospital management is the development and retention of a skilled and motivated workforce. Nigerian hospitals often face a shortage of qualified doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
“To address this challenge, hospitals need to invest in training and development programs, offer competitive salaries and benefits, and create a supportive work environment that fosters teamwork and collaboration. Effective leadership is also essential for creating a positive organizational culture and inspiring staff to perform at their best.
“Furthermore, effective hospital management requires a strong focus on quality improvement and patient safety. Nigerian hospitals often struggle with high rates of hospital-acquired infections, medication errors, and other adverse events.
“To address these issues, hospitals need to implement comprehensive quality improvement programs that involve the systematic collection and analysis of data, the identification of areas for improvement and the implementation of evidence-based interventions. Patient safety should be a top priority, with a focus on preventing errors, promoting a culture of safety, and empowering patients to actively participate in their care”.