Nigeria is facing significant financial losses yearly, amounting to billions of naira, because of medical tourism. Insufficient healthcare facilities and a deficit of skilled practitioners primarily fuel this trend. Anas Ismail, President of the Nigerian Society of Interventional Radiology, brought attention to this concern at the 7th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Association of Radiologists in Nigeria (ARIN). In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ismail voiced his worries regarding how the nation’s healthcare issues affect patient services and the overall economy.
Ismail pointed out that many Nigerians are turning to foreign healthcare due to inadequate equipment, especially for radiology, and a shortage of qualified staff. This trend has resulted in considerable economic drawbacks for Nigeria, as those who have the means to travel abroad for medical care choose countries like India, the UK, and the USA for their health needs. Ismail stated that one of the primary obstacles to Interventional Radiology in Nigeria is the insufficient availability of operational devices for patient care, along with a shortage of trained staff.
High cost of medical supplies and tools hinders access to treatments.
He emphasised that the elevated expenses associated with medical supplies and tools also hinder access to essential treatments, leading to a rise in its tourism. Consequently, numerous patients who can afford to seek medical care overseas are opting for this route, negatively impacting both the healthcare system and the economy. In Nigeria, Medical Tourism has persisted as a significant concern, with many individuals travelling abroad for medical care that could feasibly be available domestically if proper investments were initiated.
Tackling the shortcomings in Infrastructure and personnel within Nigeria’s healthcare system is crucial to reducing patient migration and financial resources. He urged both the public and private sectors to put resources into enhancing infrastructures and educating workers, particularly in radiology, to elevate patient services and encourage individuals to stay in the nation for their care needs. They strive for early detection so they can provide successful treatment. They strive to lessen the fear and stigma associated with Cancer by promoting awareness and highlighting the importance of early detection, which encourages more individuals to pursue timely assistance.
Breast cancer should be identified in its initial stages for treatment.
During a separate conversation, Dr. Wande Titus, a Consultant Radiologist at the Breast Imaging Society of Nigeria (BISON), NISA Hospital, emphasised the need to tackle the stigma linked to breast cancer in Nigeria. Titus clarified that BISON prioritises imaging for patients who are at high risk or have been diagnosed with or are suspected of having breast cancer. BISON utilises various methods, including MRIs, mammography, and breast ultrasounds, to deliver precise diagnoses, ensuring that patients obtain appropriate care. She highlighted how crucial it is to identify breast cancer in its initial stages, encouraging Nigerians not to be afraid of the illness.
Sule Saidu, former president of ARIN, emphasised the vital contribution of radiologists to patient healthcare. He stated that these professionals are essential for identifying and managing a range of medical issues using advanced techniques like X-rays and ultrasounds. He stressed the critical role radiologists play in enhancing patient outcomes and pointed out that the lack of skilled professionals and operational equipment negatively impacts the quality of care available nationwide. Similar to Ismail, Saidu emphasised the need for greater Investment in healthcare facilities and the Education of healthcare workers.
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Lastly, he noted that enhanced resources would enable radiologists to decrease the volume of patients travelling overseas for treatment, leading to a rise in domestic healthcare expenditure and a boost in the quality of medical services available. By investing sufficiently in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in radiology, and enhancing the skills of medical professionals, Nigeria has the potential to greatly diminish the number of individuals travelling overseas for medical care. This approach would enhance healthcare accessibility for its citizens and conserve billions of Naira annually for the nation.