NGO urges Bauchi Govt to focus on human resources in health facilities

From Abdullahi Idris,Bauchi

An NGO Integrated Health Programme (IHP) USAID has urged Bauchi state to focus much on human resource and distribution in the 2024 health budget for a more robust and sustainable healthcare system in the State.

Mr Khalid Kasimu, Health financing Advisor of the Organisation made the call at one day Media Quarterly Meeting in Bauchi.

He noted in his presentation on health financing outlook 2024 and support to the state stressed the need to address critical funding and human resource issues in the health sector of the state.

“The state government needs to consider a proper cost-effective HRH supply-chain management system and retention strategies.

“The projection of the health workforce, distribution of workforce by equity and effective management, and health information systems should all be strengthened” he said

Kashimu also called on the state government to also focus on family planning commodities, nutrition and as well increase infrastructures in health facilities such as light ,water among others.

In a remark, Alhaji Saleh Giade Permanent Secretary Ministry of Budget and Economic planning said the ministry would organise citizens’ engagement on budget.

Public hearing would be conducted across the three Senatorial zones that involve stakeholders, the Civil Society Organisations, Media among others.

“To receive inputs, to ensure critical assessment on how the budget would look like,” he said.

Earlier, Mrs Elizabeth Kah, Coordinator of Journalists for Public Health Initiative and Development (J4PD) said the meeting was organised to improve understanding and accurately report progress on budget performances and financing reforms.

“It will also increase health insurance awareness among the Public and develop capacity of the media outlet on reporting health,” Kah said