The Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) has raised significant concerns about the inadequate provision of laboratory services in Nigeria’s primary healthcare centres. Speaking at the 60th Annual Scientific Conference, General Meeting, and Diamond Jubilee Anniversary in Owerri, the National President, Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, revealed a troubling statistic: of the 60,000 primary healthcare centres nationwide, fewer than 2,000 offer basic laboratory services.
Dr. Ifeanyi emphasized that quality healthcare delivery is impossible without robust laboratory services. He called for urgent investments to expand and improve laboratory infrastructure across the country.
Gaps in Healthcare Policy and Recommendations
Despite some progress through the reviewed minimum health package in the National Health Act, Dr. Ifeanyi expressed disappointment over the omission of laboratory components in the updated framework. He advocated for the creation of a National Laboratory Network and noted growing support from international partners in developing guidelines for laboratory services.
Dr. Ifeanyi also highlighted the lack of compliance with the National Medical Laboratory Policy in several states, including Imo, which still lacks a Directorate of Medical Laboratory Services. He stressed the importance of aligning state policies with national directives to strengthen laboratory services at all levels of healthcare.
Commendation for Tinubu’s Executive Order
Dr. Ifeanyi lauded President Bola Tinubu for issuing an Executive Order to boost local production of diagnostics and pharmaceuticals. He described this initiative as a timely intervention, given the rising costs of imported medical diagnostics driven by the depreciating naira. Local production, he noted, would significantly improve healthcare access and affordability for Nigerians.
Leadership Changes and Internal Affairs
The AGM marked significant leadership transitions within the association. Mrs. Grace Eronini succeeded Chief Mrs. Adunni Udu as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Additionally, Dr. Uche Odionyema was suspended due to multiple constitutional violations, and a disclaimer was issued regarding a purported conference he was planning.
Call for Collaboration in Addressing Sectoral Challenges
The AMLSN underscored the need for greater collaboration among stakeholders to address the pressing challenges in Nigeria’s healthcare system. The association reiterated its commitment to driving reforms and strengthening medical laboratory services as a cornerstone of quality healthcare delivery.
Through initiatives like the National Laboratory Network and policies encouraging local production, AMLSN aims to bridge critical gaps and enhance the nation’s healthcare capacity.
