In a statement released on Sunday, the Ekiti State Government, through the Ministry of Health, declared its intention to offer free surgeries to residents across the state.
According to the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, the free surgical project was part of concerted efforts to improve the accessibility of residents to healthcare.
He noted that documentation for patients who need surgical intervention is presently going on at primary healthcare facilities in all wards across the state. However, he mentioned that patients will need their National Identification Number and a passport during the enrollment.
The commissioner further noted that the exercise “will cater to a wide range of surgical needs such as caesarian sections, hernia repairs, appendectomies, cataract surgeries, lump removals, fibroid removal, hydrocele as well as some other minor and major surgical procedures”.
According to Dr. Filani, “The initiative is designed to ensure that all residents, particularly those who are underserved and financially disadvantaged are provided with access to necessary surgical interventions without the burden of cost.
He pinpointed the aimed goals of the Free Surgical Mission which include to enhance healthcare accessibility, provide free surgical services to residents who may otherwise be unable to afford such care, and also to provide improved health outcomes and addressing surgical conditions that can significantly impact quality of life and overall health
The Commissioner clarified that the surgeries will be carried out at specific hospitals that have the required staff and facilities “to assure safe and effective outcomes while post-surgical follow-up and rehabilitation services will be provided to ensure full recovery and promptly address any complications that might arise”.
