By Nnedinma Okeke
The new Executive Secretary, Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA), Dr Obianuju Chinelo Okoye has had her first meeting with the Directors of Primary Healthcare (DPHCs) from the 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Anambra State.
The meeting which took place on May 14, was held at the ASPHCDA office complex, Awka. It commenced with a self introduction of all the PHC Directors while identifying their respective LGAs.
The Executive Secretary expressing gratitude to all for attendance at the meeting, explained that it was necessitated to discuss issues, and identify/tackle challenges while discussing on ways forward. She urged on accountability from the PHC Directors as they were in charge of all health facilities in their respective LGAs.
She spoke to the Directors about the Bio-data collection at the PHC’s level and the reasons behind it. “This is to place healthcare workers in work places not too far from their place residence, to curb tales of absenteeism from work as a result of complaints on high cost of transportation. We no longer want a situation whereby a health facility would be under lock and key,” she explained.
The ASPHCDA boss urged for due process to be followed at all times as the Directors were her chanel with the LGAs, and as such should own their Directorship, take charge and let decisions come from them. “Take note of health facilities within your jurisdiction, checkmate the Officers-In-Charge (OICs) and ensure you are knowledgeable of their activities at all times,” she added.
She, then, cautioned them against forgery of data, as it does not help to identify gaps in the system but accurate data aids the government and Partners make informed decisions. Also, She admonished them against favouritism amongst their staff, and to always appoint capable and qualified personnel as programme officers.
The Director of Primary Health Care, Awka South LGA, who is also the Director Community Health Services, ASPHCDA, Dr Ngozi Okeke thanked the Executive Secretary for the meeting. She assured that Directors of PHCs would coordinate their respective LGAs effectively to ensure good results.
The PHC Directors during the meeting listed challenges faced in some health facilities in their respective LGAs. Some of the challenges include; inadequate infrastructure of some PHCs, non-availability of water, security, fencing, solar light, and solar refrigerator.
Also, leaking roof of some PHCs, falling PVC ceiling, bad doors, and Inadequate staffing as many of the staff were retiring from the service.
Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
