By Our Reporter
Worried by the unavailability of vital hospital equipments including Magnetic Resonance Imagery (MRI) and CT Scan machines in hospitals across the State, the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly ( AKHA) has called on the State governor, Pastor Umo Eno to direct relevant Ministries and Agencies to procure same to save lives of its citizens.
Coming under a Matter of Urgent Public Importance during Tuesday’s Plenary, the member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, Hon.Moses Essien, emphasized the importance of diagnostic equipment in secondary and tertiary health facilities, adding that these instruments aid healthcare professionals in diagnosing medical conditions, especially in their early stages to encourage early intervention and proper treatment.
Essien, who is the Chairman House Committee on Health, explained that the use of diagnostic equipment contributed in no small measures to better healthcare delivery in hospitals and clinics for the benefit of both healthcare workers and patients.
He however, expressed sadness that MRI and CT Scan machines can only be accessed in the Hospital at Onna Local Government Area alone.
Essien, noted with regret that the dearth of diagnostic equipment in public health Institutions contributed to medical misdiagnosed, negative medical outcomes, delayed recovery, over or under treatment of patients ,waste of finances on wrong mediations and treatment, delay in early treatment and as well resulting on complications, chronicity and unexpected deaths.
He, expressed worry that if urgent steps are not taken to equip health facilities in Akwa Ibom State with functional CT scans and MRI, many indigene s will fall victim to preventable and treatable medical and surgical conditions.
He called on the House to appeal to the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno who is passionate about the health care of Akwa Ibom people to direct the relevant Ministry and agencies for the procurement of vital medical equipment to save citizens from sudden death.
The motion to receive the matter was moved by the member representing Eket State Constituency, Hon. Nsidibe Akata and seconded by member representing Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara, Hon. Jerry Otu.
The Speaker, Rt. Hon. ( Elder) after due deliberations on the matter, directed the Clerk of the Assembly, Mrs. Nsikakabasi Orok to communicate the resolution to the governor to direct for the procurement of Vital hospital equipment to all public health Institutions in the state.
Meanwhile, the House has adjourned plenary to Thursday 5th September 2024.
Press Unit, Office of the Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (AKHA).