Over 380 Residents Receive Free Medical Care from PAMO Hospital

More than 380 residents of Rivers State have benefited from a free medical outreach organized by the PAMO University Teaching Hospital. This initiative is part of the celebrations surrounding the upcoming 2025 PAMO University of Medical Sciences Convocation Ceremony, which reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to community health.

Community Outreach Aims to Alleviate Healthcare Barriers

The outreach program, which began on a Wednesday, is designed to provide essential medical services to those who struggle to afford healthcare. Dr. Akaninyene Ubom, the Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist and Coordinator of Clinical Services at PAMO Teaching Hospital, highlighted that the initiative aims to reach vulnerable populations in the region.

Dr. Ubom explained that the initiative was founded by Dr. Peter Odili, the former governor of Rivers State and the founder of both the university and the hospital. He stated, “The essence is to reach out to hundreds and thousands of indigent Nigerians who are finding it difficult to access healthcare delivery services due to the high cost of disease treatments.”

During the outreach, various medical services were provided, including 12 categories of surgeries such as breast lump excision, eye surgery, and appendectomies. Dr. Ubom emphasized the significance of addressing the dual challenges of health and poverty that many Nigerians face.

Real-Life Impact of Free Medical Services

Among the beneficiaries was Favour Mbade, a 46-year-old widow who underwent surgery for a hernia. She shared her story, explaining that she previously had colon cancer surgery that led to her current condition. “I was told that my previous hospital would charge over ₦1 million for the surgery,” she said from her hospital bed. “I am so grateful to PAMO Teaching Hospital for providing this service free of charge.”

Another patient, Festus Egbe, 52, traveled from Abuja to receive treatment after suffering from a hernia for 15 years. He expressed his gratitude towards those behind the initiative and called for more public-spirited individuals to contribute to similar programs. “This free medical care is a blessing,” he stated.

The outreach not only reflects the commitment of PAMO Teaching Hospital to provide affordable healthcare but also highlights the ongoing healthcare challenges faced by many in Nigeria. Dr. Ubom noted that the hospital aims to offer world-class medical services to both wealthy and less fortunate patients alike, stating, “This is not about profit; it is about providing healthcare at an affordable cost.”

In the face of ongoing healthcare challenges in Nigeria, initiatives like this outreach serve as a crucial lifeline for many who would otherwise be unable to access necessary medical care.