~Chief Medical Director Expresses Concern Amidst the Needs of Vulnerable Groups”
In a shocking discovery, expired drugs valued at over N100 million have been found within the storeroom of the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi, as revealed by the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Stephen Hwande. Dr. Hwande expressed deep concern over the negligence that led to such a large quantity of drugs expiring, particularly considering the presence of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps and other vulnerable groups within the state who may have greatly benefited from the medications.
During a visit to Makurdi’s Muhammadu Buhari Mother and Child Hospital, Dr. Hwande expressed his gratitude to Governor Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Benue’s residents. He acknowledged that the governor’s proactive efforts had prevented the federal government from withdrawing support and reclaiming the hospital due to under-utilization.
Furthermore, Dr. Hwande pledged to ensure that healthcare services would be offered at an affordable rate to citizens. He announced that antenatal cards and cards for children under five would be provided free of charge. Additionally, he commended the efforts of the hospital coordinator, Dr. Luper Uva, for establishing a general outpatients’ department for men in a facility originally intended for women and children only.
To enhance efficiency and streamline services, the hospital has implemented an electronic medical record system, effectively improving patient care. Departments such as GoPD, NHIS, ART Clinic, obstetrics and gynecology, as well as the In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Fertility clinic have all been relocated to this hospital.
Concerns regarding the expired drugs will be addressed promptly, with plans underway to publicly destroy them. Steps will also be taken to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future, safeguarding the well-being of patients and ensuring the hospital’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services.
