The need to rejig the bureaucratic process in the healthcare sector to enhance prompt, quality service delivery formed the thrust of discussions at the Y2020 Health Forum organised by the State government, themed: “Reform of Bureaucratic Process: Creativity and Innovation in the Health Care System”, held on Friday at the Orchid Hotels, Lekki, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, stated that it has become imperative to introduce new creative ideas, initiatives and innovation that will better enhance the healthcare system in the country.
The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, was of the opinion that Lagos cannot afford to have a healthcare system that is drawn back by unnecessary bureaucracies and red-tapism, as such would result in disastrous outcomes which include degeneration of ailments, complications of diseases and loss of lives.
While giving assurance of the government's commitment to sound healthcare, Sanwo-Olu said, "We understand the importance of an efficient healthcare system. This is why we have included health as one of our topmost priorities on the T.HE.M.E.S development agenda at the inception of our administration".
“The goal of the health pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S agenda is to ensure the provision of efficient and effective healthcare delivery to Lagosians and to make healthcare more seamless for the good people of Lagos", he maintained.
Speaking further, the Governor disclosed that it is for these reasons that his administration is aggressively pushing a number of policies such as the Lagos Health Insurance Scheme, EKOTELEMED and a couple of others that will facilitate accessible and efficient healthcare service delivery, adding that the State government has also prioritised the training of medical personnel within and outside the country.
He urged the healthcare providers not to relent in their efforts saying, "As we continue to do our best in terms of upgrading our health infrastructure and equipping our health facilities with state-of-the-art equipment, we are also giving due attention to your welfare".
Earlier in his address, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi stated that the government is trying to put in place digital platforms for Lagos State, but there are other issues to be addressed such as infrastructure, manpower deficiency, bypassing appropriate process and budget deficiency".
He averred that budget deficiency is not just about the amount of money allocated, but “being able to confirm the ability of your Ministry to draw out its budget and also to be able to measure what the budget has done and what impact it has added”, pointing out that the health budget will be reviewed to identify areas that are underperforming.
The event had in attendance several Commissions in the Health Sector and top government officials including the Lagos Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola and the Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu among others
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