The Chief Managing Director (CMD) of the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Lokoja, Dr. Olatunde Alabi, has identified inadequate staffing and a lack of critical equipment as challenges impeding operations at the tertiary health center, despite having over 80 consultants.
The CMD disclosed this in his office at FTH, Lokoja, noting that the exit of some experienced staff from the hospital due to the popular ‘Japa Syndrome’ is a major cause of the staff shortage.
He further noted that the strict process of hiring new staff is also hindering the replacement of those who have left the hospital. He mentioned that some staff preferred to breach their bond and travel abroad, which he stated has become a common trend.
In response to why some medical cases are referred to other hospitals, even though FTH is a tertiary health facility, the CMD explained that the absence of critical equipment in some specialized departments is largely responsible for this.
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He, however, mentioned that the hospital is already taking steps to acquire some of this equipment, adding that once this is done, the issue of referrals will be drastically reduced.
“If you have a critical case and the equipment is not available, we cannot insist on handling it simply because we are a tertiary health center. We would rather refer the patient to another hospital with the necessary equipment to save their life,” he said.
“Even though we have qualified medical personnel in the hospital, when a patient’s life is at stake, it’s only logical and medically advisable to refer them to ensure the best possible care.”
Regarding the alleged high cost of healthcare services in the facility, the CMD stated that their charges are more affordable compared to any private hospital in Lokoja and its environs.
“You cannot compare our charges to those of any private hospital in Lokoja when you consider the quality of services we provide. In terms of qualified doctors, nurses, and other staff, we are second to none. I challenge anyone to present verifiable evidence to the contrary.”
The CMD acknowledged that there is laxity among some staff at the center, but he assured that efforts are continuously being made to change the mindset of these staff members.
“We are constantly monitoring this trend and have implemented stringent measures to address this laxity, including disciplinary actions against any erring staff members.”
“We do not condone any form of misbehavior from our staff, especially toward patients who come here for medical attention. We will continue enforcing these measures until they conform to our set standards and objectives.”
He called on the public to report any cases of negligence by staff members so that the management can investigate and address such issues, adding that SERVICOM is specifically designed to monitor and address such laxity.
