How Mass Exodus Of Professional Is Affecting Health Services In Osun State

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Osun State Chapter has lamented the declining state of the health sector in the state as a result of continued exodus of professionals from the country.

According to NMA, the personnel are suffering as a result of doctors leaving Nigeria for greener pastures abroad, popularly known as ‘Japa Syndrome’.

The Chairman of the Association, Dr Adetoye Adedapo,  stated this at the State House of Assembly, while carrying out medical test on members of the assembly staff as part of the activities marking 2023 NMA Week.

He revealed that shortage of medical doctors and poor salary are major problems facing the health sector in the state and Nigeria in general

Adedapo, who was addressing the Assembly Speaker and some lawmakers present at the health outreach, sought the support of the state lawmakers, in terms of increasing doctors’ salary.

He said with better pay package, doctors from other states will be encouraged to come and work in Osun state.

The NMA Chairman expressed dissatisfaction that the state medical personnel do not have the kind of support and empowerment the Lagos State doctors have been enjoying, who he said have 50 percent of government support.

The Speaker, Adewale Egbedun, urged the NMA to put demands of the doctors in written form as he promised to look into it.

He appreciated the doctors for extending their medical outreach to the State Assembly.

“The major challenge the country is having now is the Japa syndrome, so I will encourage you to come with a proposal, then we present it to the governor so that we can come up with solutions.”