The Cross River State government is set to initiate a comprehensive overhaul of the health system to enhance the staffing of health facilities and improve healthcare service delivery, according to Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, the Commissioner for Health. Speaking at an orientation workshop on the implementation protocols and guidelines of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) in Calabar, Dr Ayuk called on stakeholders in the health sector to collaborate towards the common goal of improving healthcare for the people of the state.
In his address, Dr Ayuk emphasized the importance of cost sharing in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), stating that UHC is about providing access to quality and affordable healthcare without burdening individuals or their households with overwhelming out-of-pocket expenses. He urged participants in the workshop to think about their contributions towards achieving UHC in Cross River State, encouraging them to take on leadership roles in this endeavor.
Dr Ayuk shared that Governor Bassey Otu places a high priority on the health of the state’s citizens and is committed to fully implementing health insurance to establish Universal Health Coverage. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Pauline Obute, highlighted the significance of the training in closing knowledge gaps and ensuring efficient implementation of the BHCPF. Mr Peter Osekwemhe, a representative of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), also stressed the importance of capacity building for healthcare personnel to improve service delivery in the sector.
The upcoming overhaul of the health system in Cross River State demonstrates the government’s dedication to improving healthcare and ensuring access to quality and affordable services for all residents. By implementing these transformative changes, the state aims to enhance the overall well-being of its citizens.
