Experts Blame Poor Health Centres for Crowded Tertiary Institutions!
Experts Blame Poor Health Centres for Crowded Tertiary Institutions!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
Health experts have attributed the overcrowding of secondary and tertiary health institutions in Nigeria to the persistent failure of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) to deliver basic medical services effectively.
What We Know:
- The concerns were raised during a stakeholdersโ forum on healthcare system strengthening held in Abuja.
- Many PHCs across states reportedly suffer from underfunding, lack of qualified personnel, and inadequate equipment.
- As a result, patients bypass local clinics to seek care at overcrowded teaching hospitals and specialist centres.
Quote:
โPrimary healthcare is the foundation. If it keeps failing, the entire system will collapse under pressure.โ
โ Dr. Halima Yusuf, Public Health Specialist
Why It Matters:
- Weak PHC systems reduce access to early diagnosis and preventive care, burdening referral centres with avoidable cases.
- Tertiary hospitals face resource strain, leading to longer wait times, poor patient outcomes, and staff burnout.
- The situation undermines Nigeriaโs goal of achieving universal health coverage.
What to Watch:
Implementation of PHC revitalisation programmes under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund.
- Federal and state budget allocations to rural health infrastructure and personnel.
- Outcomes of ongoing healthcare reforms and partnerships with development agencies.
Sources:
- National Primary Health Care Development Agency โ Nov. 2, 2025
- Stakeholdersโ Forum on Health System Strengthening.
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