…As CMD Denies Evicting Striking Doctors
The Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi has acquired a state-of-the-art apheresis machine, a technology that separates and collects specific components of blood, making it a game-changer for patients with sickle cell disease, cancer, and other conditions.
Unveiling the machine to journalists on Friday, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the hospital, Dr. Stephen Hwande, expressed his excitement, noting that the equipment, which is only the second of its kind in the country, will bring salvation to patients suffering from sickle cell disease.
“We have nephews and nieces who have died of sickle cell disease, and some are currently admitted now suffering from the disease. So, for me to know today that we have a machine that only two other centers have in this country, then salvation has come,” he said.
He attributed the acquisition of the equipment to Governor Hyacinth Alia, saying that it was a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to improving healthcare in the state.
“The governor’s investments in healthcare infrastructure and equipment are unparalleled in North Central. Benue has had other governors, but never have we seen this kind of investment in health,” he said.
The Medical Director also announced that the equipment will be of immense benefit to patients from neighboring states, including Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi, and Cross River, who can now access the specialized treatment offered by the equipment.
Highlighting the machine’s versatility, Professor of Haematology and consultant haematologist with the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Professor Joseph Orkuma described the acquisition as a “revolution” in healthcare delivery, noting that it will prolong patients’ lives, shorten their hospital stay, and reduce medical expenses.
According to him, the machine is only the second of its kind in Nigeria, with the other located in Gombe Federal Teaching Hospital.
The consultant hematologist expressed his delight, saying, “It is a moment of great excitement for me, having served as a hematologist in Benue for 19 years. I encourage everyone to spread the word and invite patients to take advantage of this facility.”
He emphasized that the machine will be used to treat various conditions, including sickle cell disease, cancer, immune disorders among others.
Professor Orkuma expressed gratitude to the governor and the hospital management for their support, making the acquisition possible and demonstrating their commitment to improving healthcare in Benue State, assuring that the facility will provide quality care to patients.
“The machine will benefit not only Benue residents but also patients from neighboring states, including Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi, and Cross River,” he emphasized.
As an example, he shared a recent experience managing a patient in Abuja, wishing he could have utilized the machine to provide plasma apheresis treatment.
“I can now offer this life-saving treatment to my patients here in Makurdi, a service previously unavailable,” he added.
The acquisition of the apheresis machine is part of the hospital’s efforts to upgrade its services, following the recent introduction of new medical equipment, including a colposcope, fluoroscope, and IVF facilities.
The apheresis machine is expected to make a significant impact on healthcare delivery in Benue State and beyond, solidifying BSUTH’s quest to be a leading medical center in Nigeria.
Other equipment included an ultra-low freezer (-80°C), an ultra-low freezer (-30°C), and a blood bank refrigerator, among others.
On the allegations that the hospital management forcefully evicted the striking Resident Doctors from the hospital premises, the Chief Medical Director denied the allegations, explaining that the management had met with the doctors and requested that they vacate the quarters to facilitate comprehensive renovations, a request that was part of their own demands.
He described the actions of the striking Resident Doctors as insensitive, noting that the allowance they are striking over is also owed to other sections of the hospital, including administration, laboratory, and attendants, who are currently rendering services at the hospital.
