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Anambra State government has commenced free medical intervention programme for civil servants in the state aimed at combating organ impairment and life-threatening diseases.
The state’s Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Christian Madubuko, who launched the programme at the ministry’s Conference Hall in Awka, yesterday, said the exercise would be held on daily basis.
Madubuko explained that members of staff would be examined for high blood pressure, diabetes, visual and hearing impairment, as well as other life-threatening ailments that could negatively impact their capacity to work, adding that they will be treated.
He added that those whose conditions require higher medical examinations would be referred to secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities for treatment and management free of charge.
According to the commissioner, the programme tagged, “Maintaining A Healthy Workforce”, is part of Governor Willie Obiano’s development agenda to improve healthcare and give disadvantaged workers access to quality medical care.
He disclosed the ministry is working in collaboration with a non-governmental organisation (NGO), Beacon of Hope Outreach USA, adding that 175 workers in the ministry have so far benefited in the ongoing exercise.
While performing the flag-off ceremony, he said: ‘The free medical outreach would be a yearly event. The programme is essential to ensure that Anambra civil servants live a good and fulfilling life.’
Madubuko, therefore, urged members of staff and those from other ministries to utilise the opportunity and make themselves available for screening and treatment for medical conditions that can limit their mental and physical development.
The programme Consultant, Dr. Philip Ume-Ezeoke, urged workers who have health challenges to take advantage and benefit from the free medical exercise.
“The intention of the medical mission was borne out of the commitment of the Anambra State government through the Ministry of Diaspora to bring down the rate of diseases and disabilities among civil servants in the state,” he noted.
Also speaking at the event, founder of the NGO, Lady Celestina Ekezie, said the healthcare initiative would encourage and increase access to quality healthcare service in line with the state’s universal health coverage drive.
She commended the state government, particularly the commissioner, for approving the medical intervention, stressing that it was an investment the state would not regret.
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