INNOCENT OWEH ABUJA
The Commissioner for Primary Health Care in Niger State, Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, has emphasized the significance of establishing an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) throughout the state.
He mentioned that it holds a crucial position in overseeing surveillance activities, handling disease outbreaks, and coordinating emergency responses throughout the state.
Remember that the state government recently implemented measures to enhance its healthcare system by setting up an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) within the state.
Set up and overseen by eHealth Africa with assistance from the Gates Foundation, this advanced center acts as a key meeting point for stakeholders. It plays a crucial role in developing a flexible and evidence-based public healthcare network in Niger State.
Dr. Dangana praised the idea as a "game-changer," noting that since its launch approximately a year earlier, the EOC had significantly improved the coordination of public health efforts within the state.
He states that the EOC has effectively linked all 25 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in real-time, facilitating online conferences, data submission, and swift action during health crises such as deadly childhood illnesses, cholera, and meningitis outbreaks.
Dangana noted that before the EOC, coordination relied heavily on physical meetings and delayed data, making emergency response sluggish and resource-intensive.
"Previously, moving health workers to meetings at this center was expensive and inefficient. Now, we have the ability to hold hybrid sessions, retrieve real-time data, and swiftly make well-informed decisions," he stated.
He mentioned that apart from managing emergencies, the EOC acts as a hub for cooperation with various technical committees, developmental organizations, and healthcare administrators throughout the region.
He says it creates an atmosphere that enhances both employee motivation and efficiency through features like specialized conference spaces, individual workstations, advanced telecommunications tools, and amenities designed for staff well-being.
Dr. Dangana praised the Niger State Government for their dedication to maintaining the EOC, noting that Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago has endorsed plans to expand facilities with an additional story and has instructed the establishment of a specific budget item to fund the EOC’s activities.
"This program initially received funding from donors, yet sustainability was inherently designed into it. The government has wholeheartedly adopted this approach, allocating funds within their budget and demonstrating robust political commitment to sustain and grow the project," he said.
He observed that substantial investments in primary healthcare within the state have resulted in higher utilization rates for services like antenatal care and professional childbirth assistance, indicating rising trust in PHC centers among the populace.
Our objective is straightforward: we aim to position Niger State as one of the leading three states in Nigeria regarding fair, available, and cost-effective healthcare services. As stated by Dr. Dangana, "The EOC plays an essential role in achieving this target." He further emphasized that it serves not just as a structure but also acts as a vital instrument for consolidating information, harmonizing strategies, and facilitating prompt, well-informed reactions.
He encouraged locals to take advantage of the healthcare options currently at their disposal, emphasizing that preventing illnesses and addressing issues promptly are crucial for enhancing the overall well-being of the community.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
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