On the 30th of September 2024, the CIDJAP team paid a visit to Ukamaka Cottage Hospital and Primary Health Care Centre, Akpakwumenze, for a medical outreach event sponsored by Dr. Bertrand, an illustrious son of the community. The outreach aimed to provide essential medical services to the people of Akpakwumenze, further strengthening the community's access to healthcare.
The outreach was led by Prof. Aniogbo's team from the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), and the event was structured into five key sections, each serving a critical function in the healthcare delivery process:
1. Nurses Stand: The outreach began with patients reporting to the nurses' stand, where vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse rate were checked. The nurses also collected patients' biodata, ensuring that all essential medical information was recorded before the patients moved on to the next section. This preliminary check ensured that the patients received the appropriate care according to their health status.
2. Doctors' Stand: There were four doctors' stands, where patients received consultations and medical examinations. The doctors assessed the health concerns of the community members and provided diagnoses, medical advice, and treatment plans. This section was crucial in identifying critical health issues that required immediate attention and follow-up care.
3. PDX (Portable X-Ray): To assist with more in-depth diagnosis, a portable X-ray machine (PDX) was available. Patients who needed further diagnostic imaging were referred to this section. The PDX provided an essential tool for identifying internal issues such as fractures, lung conditions, and other abnormalities that could not be detected through physical examinations alone.
4. Xpat (T.B) Gene X Factor: The outreach also addressed tuberculosis (T.B) concerns. The Xpat (T.B) Gene X Factor testing unit offered specialized tests to detect tuberculosis in patients. This critical public health service helped in early detection and treatment, curbing the spread of this infectious disease within the community.
5. Dispensing Unit (Pharmacy): After receiving diagnoses and prescriptions, patients were directed to the dispensing unit, where medications were provided. The pharmacy ensured that patients left the outreach with the necessary drugs and medical supplies to manage their health conditions. The pharmacists also offered counsel on proper drug usage and adherence to treatment plans.
Presentation of a Toyota Sienna Vehicle
During the outreach, a significant donation was made to Ukamaka Cottage Hospital: a Toyota Sienna vehicle. The vehicle, generously gifted by Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike the President and Founding Director of CIDJAP, will aid in emergency responses and patient transportation, greatly improving the hospital's logistical capabilities. The key to the vehicle was handed over to the hospital's doctor by Rev. Fr. Chidiebere Ani in a symbolic gesture, marking a moment of celebration for the community. Prof. Paschal Okolie, a distinguished stakeholder of the hospital, was present to witness the handover, further emphasizing the importance of this donation in enhancing the hospital's service delivery.
Commissioning of Doctors' Quarters and Toilet Facilities
In addition to the medical outreach and vehicle donation, the event also saw the commissioning of newly constructed doctors' quarters and toilet facilities at the hospital. These facilities, a critical component of the hospital's infrastructure, were formally commissioned by the CIDJAP team, led by Rev. Fr. Chidiebere Ani. The new accommodations are expected to improve the working conditions of medical personnel, thus encouraging more healthcare professionals to serve in the rural community of Akpakwumenze.
Conclusion
The medical outreach at Ukamaka Cottage Hospital and Primary Health Care Center was a resounding success, bringing essential healthcare services to the people of Akpakwumenze. The community benefitted from expert medical care, crucial diagnostics, and much-needed medications. The generous contributions of Dr. Bertrand, along with the support of the CIDJAP team, Prof. Aniogbo's team from UNTH, Prof. Paschal Okolie and the entire community, have laid a foundation for improved healthcare in Akpakwumenze. The donation of the Toyota Sienna vehicle and the commissioning of the doctors' quarters and toilet facilities represent long-term investments in the hospital's infrastructure, ensuring sustained healthcare delivery to the community.
The outreach demonstrated the power of collaborative efforts in uplifting communities through healthcare and the importance of continuous support from community stakeholders for the sustainability of such vital services.