In a significant move to reduce medical tourism and enhance healthcare delivery in Nigeria, the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) in partnership with Patricare has unveiled a premium medical facility.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony on Tuesday, the Chief Medical Director of UPTH, Professor Henry Ugboma, highlighted the negative impact of medical tourism on Nigeria’s healthcare reputation and economy.
He emphasized that the UPTH premium facility is designed to provide world-class healthcare services, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.
“it will not only benefit the host community but the whole state. It is one of the best. We have the personnel, equipment. It is cheaper than what you get abroad,” Professor Ugboma stated.
He further explained that the facility is sustained through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Patricare, which brings in additional expertise and resources.
“We envisioned this project as a step towards the future of healthcare in Nigeria. With the support of the Federal Government and the Teaching Hospital Board, we sought partnerships, including the Central Bank of Nigeria, to establish a five-star medical facility,” he added.
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Dr. Teinye Isokariari, Managing Director of Patricare, revealed that the project took eight months of relentless effort to complete. He emphasized that the goal is to provide the same quality of healthcare available overseas.
“We worked tirelessly with a dedicated team and strong partners to make this facility a reality. UPTH has always been a leader in quality healthcare, and this premium facility strengthens that reputation.
Dr. Isokariari explained that the facility has 70 bed spaces, four operating theatres, a special care unit, and advanced medical technology, with the aim to deliver healthcare that matches global standards.
Professor Datonye Alasia, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council of UPTH, reassured that the unveiling of the premium facility does not mean the closure of the main hospital.
Prof Alasia affirmed the health facilities commitment in providing the best medical care, and the premium facility is an extension of their vision to offer top-tier healthcare services.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari Georgewill, praised the initiative, calling it a testament to UPTH’s dedication to quality healthcare.
“The facility that makes people travel abroad for medical tourism is in the UPTH premium complex,” he said. “They have provided all the things needed for medical pratitioners to succeed. What you are looking for in london is in Port Harcourt. When you leave here, tell people they will get the service they seek abroad in UPTH premium.
“We are with you and will continue to work the work with you” UNIPORT VC stated.
Rivers State Commissioner for Health, represented by Mr. Ojum Sylvanus, Director of Emergency Medical Services, described the premium medical facility as a win-win for both Rivers State and UPTH.
“This is a groundbreaking achievement that will benefit everyone. The cost of treatment is more affordable than traveling abroad, and quality is assured. Moreover, it eliminates the risks associated with transporting critically ill patients overseas,” he noted.
Sylvanus further called for support from the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) to ensure an uninterrupted power supply to the facility.
The event was marked by the official ribbon-cutting by the Special Guest of Honour and former UPTH Board Chairman, Mukta Anka-Ahmed.
The UPTH Premium Facility offers specialized services in gynecology, dentistry, general surgery, orthopedics, pediatrics, dialysis, cardiology, neurology, endoscopy, radiology, laboratory services, and dermatology, among others.
