“Sound financial management, innovative financing mechanisms such as public-private partnerships and cost-saving initiatives like group purchasing can strengthen hospitals’ ability to deliver better care”
By John Odunayo
A health practitioner, Philip Tinubu, has called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare delivery to address the problems plaguing it and reposition the sector for efficiency.
Tinubu said that efficient hospital management remained the cornerstone for addressing the country’s persistent health sector challenges, which he listed to include “inadequate infrastructure, poor resource allocation, shortage of skilled professionals and widespread systemic inefficiencies”.
The expert, who spoke in a chat with journalists in Ado Ekiti, said, “Sound financial management, innovative financing mechanisms such as public-private partnerships and cost-saving initiatives like group purchasing can strengthen hospitals’ ability to deliver better care”.
He also stressed the need for operational efficiency including adoption of electronic health records, improved patient flow systems and streamlined bed utilization as measures that could reduce waiting times, cut errors and improve the patient experience.
He said, “Nigeria’s healthcare system faces a myriad of challenges, ranging from inadequate infrastructure and resource constraints to systemic inefficiencies and a shortage of skilled personnel. These challenges collectively contribute to poor health outcomes, limited access to quality care and a general lack of public trust in the healthcare system.
“However, amidst these challenges lies an opportunity for transformative change through the implementation of effective and efficient hospital management practices.
“Hospital management encompasses the strategic planning, organization and coordination of all activities within a hospital setting. It involves the integration of clinical and administrative functions to ensure the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care in a cost-effective manner.
“In the context of Nigeria, where resources are scarce and healthcare needs are immense, effective hospital management is not merely desirable, but essential for optimizing the use of available resources and improving the overall performance of the healthcare system.
“One of the key areas where effective hospital management can make a significant impact is in the optimization of resource allocation. Nigerian hospitals often struggle with limited budgets, inadequate supplies of essential medicines and equipment, and a shortage of qualified staff.
“Another critical aspect of effective hospital management is the development and retention of a skilled and motivated workforce. Nigerian hospitals often face a shortage of qualified doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
“To address this challenge, hospitals need to invest in training and development programmes, offer competitive salaries and benefits, and create a supportive work environment that fosters teamwork and collaboration. Effective leadership is also essential for creating a positive organizational culture and inspiring staff to perform at their best.
“Furthermore, effective hospital management requires a strong focus on quality improvement and patient safety. Nigerian hospitals often struggle with high rates of hospital-acquired infections, medication errors, and other adverse events.
“To address these issues, hospitals need to implement comprehensive quality improvement programmes that involve the systematic collection and analysis of data, the identification of areas for improvement and the implementation of evidence-based interventions.
“Patient safety should be a top priority, with a focus on preventing errors, promoting a culture of safety, and empowering patients to actively participate in their care,” Tinubu said.
