Urgent reforms needed in primary healthcare, says Tinubu’s aide, Salma

The persistent maternal health crisis in Nigeria has been attributed to deficiencies in the Primary Healthcare System (PHCs), contributing to the global burden of maternal and newborn deaths. According to Dr. Salma Anas Ibrahim, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Health, inadequacies in financing, medical expertise, healthcare coverage, and management of PHCs are major contributors to this crisis.

Speaking at a seminar for health journalists themed “Improving access to healthcare: The role of primary healthcare,” Dr. Salma emphasized that the maternal and child death problem could be mitigated by redesigning PHCs for more effective operation. She stressed that an efficient primary healthcare system is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals target of universal health coverage by 2030, as it is closest to the people who need care the most.

Dr. Salma described PHCs as the entry point into a society’s healthcare delivery system, asserting that around 80% of health issues should be addressed at this level. She emphasized that PHCs should provide life-saving basic care, be community-owned, and led to ensure optimal utilization and sustainability. Dr. Salma also highlighted the importance of linking PHCs to secondary care facilities for efficient referrals.

Warning about the increasing morbidity and mortality burdens associated with maternal healthcare and pregnancy-related conditions, Dr. Salma advocated for integrated systems to ensure pregnant women receive quality care, including payment for services and health insurance coverage. She stressed the need for PHCs to be designed to meet the specific needs of the communities they serve, fostering positive interactions and relieving anxieties for caregivers and patients alike.