By Chizoba Okeke
The Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Health has commended the management of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, for significant improvements in healthcare delivery, particularly the introduction of a smart card system, digitalization of medical records, renovation of the emergency department and the ongoing oxygen reticulation project.
The commendation came during an oversight visit to the hospital on June 24, led by the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Tony Muobike. The lawmakers inspected ongoing projects, receiving updates on key reforms being implemented by the hospital’s management.
Addressing the committee, the Chief Medical Director of COOUTH, Dr. Maureen Umeakuewulu, said the hospital had embarked on an ambitious transformation programme aimed at repositioning the institution as a leading centre for healthcare delivery, research and innovation.
According to her, the vision is to build a globally competitive healthcare institution driven by quality service delivery, cutting edge research, staff development and digital innovation.
Dr. Umeakuewulu explained that one of the administration’s early priorities was the complete renovation of the emergency unit after it was found to be below acceptable standards for effective patient care.
She highlighted the hospital’s oxygen reticulation project, describing it as a major intervention that would improve emergency response and patient outcomes by providing a direct and uninterrupted oxygen supply to hospital wards.
The CMD noted that the project would eliminate the hospital’s dependence on oxygen cylinders, ensuring quicker, safer and more reliable access to oxygen during critical situations.
On digital reforms, she disclosed that patient records had been fully computerized, securing through cloud based technology to enhance accessibility, efficient management and long term preservation of medical information.
She explained that the newly introduced smart card system allows patients to access their medical records, make electronic payments and move seamlessly across departments without carrying physical files.
Dr. Umeakuewulu added that the smart card also features an electronic wallet, enabling relatives to remotely fund the treatment of loved ones, particularly elderly patients who may require financial support while receiving care.
Responding, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Tony Muobike, praised the hospital’s management for the visible transformation taking place within the institution.
He described the level of innovation, infrastructural development and commitment to quality healthcare delivery as impressive, noting that the achievements reflected purposeful leadership and effective management.
Muobike reaffirmed the commitment of the Anambra State House of Assembly to supporting initiatives that strengthen healthcare services, improve staff welfare, address pension and promotion related concerns, ensuring adequate funding for health institutions across the state.
He encouraged the hospital management to continue engaging with the legislature on existing challenges, assuring them of the Assembly’s willingness to collaborate with relevant authorities in finding lasting solutions.
Also speaking during the visit, the member representing Orumba South Constituency, Hon. Emma Nwafor, and his Aguata I counterpart, Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke, alongside other committee members, described the oxygen reticulation project as a critical life saving initiative.
They noted that the project would significantly boost the hospital’s emergency response capacity and improve survival rates for patients requiring urgent and critical care.
Chizoba Okeke is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
