By Ndidi Chukwu
Former senate president, Senator David Mark has called on the federal government to prioritize health by paying attention to the possible economic benefits of investing in Health to support the nation economy.
He said if the federal government can explore the business potential in the health sector, revitalize Primary Healthcare, and implement the National Health Act 2014, the nation could become an health hub in Africa and contribute to economic growth.
Senator Mark made the comment during an investiture of patrons of the Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria, Mark added that the concern and investment in economic growth were important; economy essentially was all about health and being healthy.
“If a lot of the emphasis devoted to the economy alone, just a little is devoted to health, you will find the economy will do better,” he said.
The investiture was organized in honour of outstanding and distinguished private medical practitioners in practice for over 10 years and those to who have surpassed 25 years in private practice, to reinvigorate their passion and commitment towards saving humanity.
Senator Mark who commended the medical doctors also said that private practice was needed in remote rural areas where established public health care was beyond reach, noting doctors must put the health of the public first.
“It is one industry where there should never be politics. You must never play politics in the health sector, the passion should always be the guest to save lives” said Mark.
AGMPN President, Dr. Frank Odafen said private medical practice, though handling much of the health burden among Nigerians, faced serious challenges that stifle its growth.
“What we have is not lack of capacity or skills. We have people trained all over the world, and they are specialist. We are heavyweight champions but our hands are tied because of lack of facilities to practice,” Odafen said.
He urged for creation of an enabling environment to allow private practice thrive and an end to multiple taxation levied against private hospitals, which eventually is transferred onto patients’ health bills.
