BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
RESIDENTS of Delta State have called on the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) to initiate radio programs aimed at educating the public about the healthcare services they are entitled to receive from their registered hospitals. This move is seen as a necessary step to curb unscrupulous practices by some hospitals under the Commission.
According to them, they are unaware of the full range of services they should receive, leading to exploitation and substandard care.
However, using radio as a medium to disseminate information, the DSCHC can reach a wide audience, get feedback from callers while ensuring that more people are informed about their rights and the services available to them.
A civil servant, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed frustration over his inability to access quality healthcare from government hospitals.
“I still remember when my child was sick. I took him to the hospital using my card, but they only gave us paracetamol, cough syrup, and malaria medicine, saying that’s all my card covered. I had to get tests done outside and was still asked to buy some medications elsewhere. So when I hear reports of the commission’s efforts to ensure Deltans get quality care, I just laugh and think it won’t work. But if the proposed radio programs provide details on how to access services, what to expect during hospital visits, and how to report any irregularities, it would be a good start.”
He emphasized that such an initiative would empower patients with requisite knowledge, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability within the healthcare system.
In a similar vein, a concerned Deltan, Mr. Samuel Ikenna, applauded the commission for their efforts in ensuring that all indigenes, including the indigents, across Delta have access to free, quality healthcare services.
He advised that with better awareness, there would be a significant reduction in the unethical practices observed in some hospitals, ultimately leading to improved healthcare delivery across Delta State.
Mr. Ikenna expressed hope that the DSCHC would respond positively to this call and implement the radio programs as soon as possible.
