According to Dr Danagogo, current statistics shows that most doctors practice in the urban centers whereas their services are most needed by the rural population. He added that the concentration of medical practice in the urban centers is increasing the challenges of an unbalanced doctor-to-population distribution in the Nigerian health sector.
The SSG who made the statement during a courtesy visit by the new executive members of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Rivers State Chapter, in Port Harcourt, today, said, “Most patients die in the rural areas for sicknesses that can be easily treated. Your profession is a sacrifice to humanity.
While calling on doctors and health practitioners to remain professional and dedicated in carrying out their duties, he maintained that the place of medical practice in any society cannot be shortchanged by anyone or medical personnels themselves, as every individual needs medical attention at some point in their lives.
Speaking, the President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Chizindu Alikor, said the NMA was ready to support and work with the Government of Rivers State in promoting health services in the state.
He outlined some issues which include domestication of the Medical Residency Training Act (MRTA), proper training and skipping of doctors, provision of group life insurance and compensation for doctors and health workers, employment of doctors and other health workers amongst others.
The NMA President was accompanied by members of his executive.
