ONITSHA/Nigeria: The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called on all levels of government to address the factors encouraging brain drain in the health sector to save it from depleting experienced professionals and an aging workforce. Prof. Rowland Osuoji, a Consultant Pediatric Surgeon, made this call while delivering the 5th Prof. Festus Nwako Memorial Lecture at the Anambra NMA 2024 Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting held in Onitsha.
Osuoji, who is also the President of the Association of Pediatric Surgeons of Nigeria, delivered a lecture entitled “Excellent, Resilient and Equitable Healthcare System Amidst Economic Downturn.” He noted that the shortage of healthcare professionals in Nigeria worsened in the mid-1980s when the Structural Adjustment Programme reduced the purchasing power of the people, and regretted that nothing had been done to effectively arrest the trend. The development led to a brain drain, as highly skilled older colleagues left and relocated abroad.
Osuoji emphasized that the current brain drain is more frightening as younger healthcare professionals are now involved. He questioned who would replace the aging healthcare workforce. The economic downturn has resulted in reduced government revenues, healthcare budgets, increased unemployment, and poverty, thereby putting pressure on the demand for healthcare services.
He pointed out that the sector also faces challenges of insufficient and inconsistent government funding, heavy reliance on out-of-pocket payments, and poor conditions of healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas. Osuoji recommended the adoption of health insurance schemes that encourage private sector involvement, telemedicine, community engagement, and equitable healthcare for all Nigerians, irrespective of their socioeconomic status. Collaborative efforts among policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities are essential to prioritize investments in healthcare infrastructure, innovation, and equitable access to ensure robust health systems capable of withstanding economic challenges in Nigeria.
Earlier in her welcome address, Dr. Jane Ezeonu, Chairman of NMA Anambra, urged doctors to enhance healthcare delivery through innovation, collaboration, and continuous professional development, despite the challenges in the country. Dr. Victor Modekwe, Chairman of the organizing committee, noted that the conference was an opportunity to network with peers, mentors, and health industry leaders for collaborations to boost professional growth. The NMA also used the occasion to accord a grand welcome to Dr. Jide Onyekwelu, a former chairman of the chapter who served as the immediate past National Secretary General of NMA.
