Japa: Kwara laments shortage of doctors in govt hospitals
The Kwara state government is facing a significant shortage of medical doctors in its health facilities, largely attributed to the ‘Japa’ syndrome, where many professionals relocate for better opportunities abroad.
This concern was raised during the first quarter inter-ministerial press briefing organized by the Ministry of Communication in Ilorin.
Dr. Abdulraheem Abdulmalik, Executive Secretary of the state Hospital Management Board, emphasized the difficulties in recruiting eligible medical personnel, despite Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s directive to hire more doctors. “Doctors are in high demand,” he stated, adding that when one resigns, they can quickly find another position.
Presently, there are only 99 doctors on the state’s payroll, while an adequate workforce would require between 180 and 200 medical professionals.
Dr. Abdulmalik noted the return of three doctors after a recent salary increase, bringing the total to 99, but emphasized the urgent need for more.
To address the long waits patients often face, the board plans to implement a software application that will provide information on doctor availability at its 45 health facilities.
This initiative aims to improve patient experience and reduce the risk of individuals collapsing while waiting for treatment.
Dr. Abdulmalik pointed out that the challenges in attracting doctors are especially severe in rural areas. To combat this, the board is considering better remuneration and incentives to make positions more appealing. “We want to ensure salaries are competitive with those in the Western world,” he stated.
Furthermore, a retention plan is in the works that involves sponsoring medical students in exchange for a commitment to work in the state for a set number of years after graduation. This initiative is expected to begin within the next three to four years.
In discussing the training of nurses, Dr. Abdulmalik remarked that while some nurses also leave for opportunities abroad, the state is currently more focused on addressing the critical shortage of doctors. He noted that the social dynamics often keep nurses in the country, as their employment frequently depends on their spouses’ locations.
