The Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has launched the first phase of a project deploying 168 mobile pentacyclic ambulances aimed at providing comprehensive healthcare coverage across the state. This initiative is a significant component of the Governor’s five-finger agenda, emphasizing the enhancement of healthcare services.
In his speech, delivered by the Deputy Governor Alhaji Aminu Alkali, Governor Kefas emphasized the importance of proper utilization of these ambulances by local government officials, warning against any misuse. The ambulances are equipped to bring medical services directly to the community, especially targeting those in remote and underserved areas.
Dr. Bodia Gbansheya Buma, the Commissioner of Health, highlighted the expected positive impact of this initiative on grassroots healthcare. He noted that the mobile ambulances, staffed by trained healthcare professionals, are intended to mitigate common barriers to accessing timely medical care, such as poor road infrastructure, lack of transportation funds, and the geographical spread of the population.
This project aims to address the critical delays in patient transportation that often lead to increased mortality rates. By facilitating quicker and more efficient transport of patients from their communities to Primary Health Care Centers (PHCC) and, if necessary, to General or First Referral Hospitals, the initiative seeks to improve overall health outcomes.
The State Ministry of Health is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health to integrate this service with the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Services (NEMSAS). This integration will ensure that emergency medical services can be summoned swiftly through free toll lines, ensuring rapid response times.
Dr. Buma urged all community stakeholders, including local government chairmen, traditional and youth leaders, and the broader populace, to support and safeguard this program. Sustaining this initiative is crucial for ensuring long-term benefits and improvements in the state’s healthcare system.
