Emergency patients: Fix hospitals before punishing health workers, NMA tells National Assembly

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) rejects a National Assembly proposal to fine or imprison healthcare workers who turn away emergency patients. Its president, Professor Afekhide Ernest Omoti, says lawmakers should first hold governments accountable for funding and equipping hospitals and providing suitable working conditions. He notes that the National Health Act already provides for emergency care, including through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, but inadequate implementation leaves facilities bearing costs without proper reimbursement. Omoti also links staff shortages to poor pay, difficult working conditions, insecurity and the migration of Nigerian doctors and nurses abroad.