It’s often said that health is wealth; only a healthy person can work, create wealth, and contribute to the economy at all levels. Recognizing this, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has been dedicated to improving the health sector since taking office over a year ago.
During his campaign, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the importance of a healthy citizenry and listed the health sector as a priority. His administration’s agenda includes the rehabilitation, re-equipment, and staffing of government health institutions, the provision of a referral hospital, and the regulation of private health facilities to benefit citizens.
One of Governor Mutfwang’s significant steps was appointing Professor Christopher Yilgwan, a seasoned paediatrician and former Plateau State Nigerian Medical Association Chairman, as the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Plateau State Specialist Hospital in Jos. This move aims to reposition the hospital for improved healthcare delivery.
Upon taking office, Governor Mutfwang directed the completion of unfinished projects in the hospital initiated by the previous administration. His commitment to healthcare is evident in his efforts to enhance services and facilities.
Governor Mutfwang’s Initiatives:
– Approved four additional specialists in Pediatrics, Surgery, Internal Medicine, and another area.
– Recruiting 22 Consultants to enhance hospital services.
– Funded the Primary Healthcare Development Board for basic functions.
– Reviving contracts for secondary healthcare facilities in Shendam, Langtang, Pankshin, Mangu, and Barkin Ladi.
“We are looking at reviving the contracts so that the hospitals can come back to life,” the Governor stated. “In some services at the Plateau Specialist Hospital, we had to bring in the private sector to manage due to lack of personnel.”
Governor Mutfwang highlighted the shortage of specialists, such as physiotherapists and dental surgeons, in the state. His administration is working to establish a Medical Faculty at Plateau State University and redesign the Plateau Specialist Hospital to address these gaps.
Professor Yilgwan has been actively working to fulfil the Governor’s vision. Under his leadership, the hospital has seen numerous improvements, including:
– Improved health hazard allowance for medical workers.
– Payment of outstanding salaries.
– Expansion of Residency training in Internal Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Surgery, and Pediatrics.
– Procurement of 100 hospital beds, mattresses, and pillows.
– Contract awarded for the supply and installation of Main Laboratory equipment.
– Payment of outstanding funds for the Radio-diagnostic centre.
– Deployment and installation of an Electronic Medical Records (EMR) project.
Patients have already noticed the changes. Stella Obiakor, who visited the hospital for a scan, remarked, “I was taken aback to see the improvement. The environment is very clean, and the service has improved. I like what I am seeing and I pray they maintain it.”
These initiatives and achievements highlight the importance Governor Mutfwang places on the healthcare sector. His administration’s actions have rekindled hope among citizens for a better and brighter future in healthcare delivery in Plateau State.
By focusing on healthcare, Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration is paving the way for a healthier, more prosperous Plateau State. The improvements at Plateau Hospital are just the beginning of a transformative journey towards enhanced medical services and a robust healthcare system.
