Primary healthcare providers and medical experts in Osun State, Nigeria, have emphasized the importance of thorough diagnostic investigations prior to treating patients. This call was made at the 3rd biennial conference for primary healthcare providers and trado-medical birth attendants in the Irewole/Isokan/Ayedaade Federal Constituency, organized by Medical Radiographer/Sonographer, Adeyemi Adeniji. The conference, which started in 2021, aims to enhance the capacity of participants by exposing them to current trends and developments in medical practice.
Over 200 participants, including traditional birth attendants, primary healthcare providers, nurses, and medical doctors, attended the conference held in Ikire, Osun State. Adeniji stated that the program has significantly impacted the participants, and he established a diagnostic centre in Ikire to provide quality diagnostic services to the community. He also lamented the level of quackery in the profession and emphasized the need for health workers to understand their job limitations and scope of practice.
A resource person at the conference, Dr. Samuel Obasade, highlighted the importance of diagnostic investigations in healthcare practice. He explained that most treatment plans are determined by investigative results, emphasizing that diagnostic investigations are a crucial part of modern medicine. Obasade called for proper legislation and enforcement of laws to eradicate quackery in the medical practice.
The issue of quackery and lack of refresher training for health workers is a persistent problem in Nigeria. However, efforts are being made to address this challenge. The National Primary Health Care Development Agency recently announced plans to train 120,000 frontline health workers in integrated service delivery this year. This move is expected to improve healthcare service delivery in the country.
The conference and the planned training program underscore the need for continued education and training for healthcare providers to ensure they are equipped to deliver quality services. The emphasis on diagnostic investigations and the establishment of diagnostic centers are critical steps in improving healthcare outcomes in Nigeria. As the country continues to grapple with the challenges of quackery and inadequate healthcare services, initiatives like these are essential in enhancing the capacity of healthcare providers and promoting quality healthcare delivery.