The David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH), Uburu, Ebonyi, has begun a two-month free medical treatment programme for residents in the state.
The aim is to improve access to healthcare and promote early detection of common diseases.
Inaugurated at the hospital on Wednesday, the initiative will provide residents with free medical consultations and treatment for common ailments.
The ailments include malaria, diarrhoea and other communicable and non-communicable diseases.
The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of DUFUTH, Prof. Chihurumnanya Alo, said the initiative would provide residents with an opportunity to access medical care without financial constraints.
Alo urged members of the public experiencing symptoms of illness to take advantage of the exercise by presenting themselves at the hospital for proper medical assessment and treatment.
He stressed the importance of early presentation at healthcare facilities, noting that prompt diagnosis and treatment could help prevent complications.
The CMD also encouraged residents to adopt healthy lifestyles and cooperate with healthcare professionals in preventing and controlling communicable diseases.
Also speaking, Prof. Jesse Uneke said the initiative was part of the institution’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and making quality medical services accessible to members of the public.
Uneke is that Vice-Chancellor of David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences.
He said the programme was also designed to strengthen the relationship between the teaching hospital and communities within its catchment area.
The vice chancellor said the exercise was open to everyone, irrespective of tribe, social or economic status.
“This is part of our responsibility to give back to society by making contributions and providing support to improve the health of the people.
‘’The programme is organised, especially for those who cannot afford quality healthcare,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, DUFUTH, Dr Ugoji Darlington-Peter, urged members of the public to utilise the opportunity to assess their health.
‘’The two-month exercise will complement ongoing efforts by the hospital to improve access to quality healthcare and strengthen public health services in its host community and surrounding areas.
(NAN)
