Basil Nwankwo, the chief medical director, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, COOUTH, Amaku, Awka, said the health facility now records no fewer than 9,000 patients suffering from various ailments monthly.

Nwankwo told newsmen shortly after commencement of free treatment of patients by the 20 Indian doctors brought into the state by Rotary International through District 9142, Awka.

According to him, of the facility was treating 4,000 monthly until he assumed duties as chief medical director.

“You can see the phenomenal rise. General out patients department, GOPD, stays open from 8am to 8pm daily, Monday to Sunday,’’ he said.

Nwankwo added that the hospital had been transformed and repositioned to tackle the health needs of patients seeking medical attention.

“I will urge you to look at the improved COOUTH; so many things have happened like constant power supply, beautified compound, effective ambulances that convey patients in and out at the snap of a finger.’’

On security of equipment donated by the Indian doctors, Nwankwo said that the era of equipment being taken away from the hospital had gone.

“I can assure that my consultants are geared toward the betterment Ndi Anambra,’’ the CMD added.

He described the Indian doctors on a medical mission as a welcome development as both students and resident doctors in the hospital would benefit from their re-training programme, particularly on the latest advancement in medical practice.

“The Nigerian Medical Association is aware of the mission. We improve our services through these trainings. Doctors are aware and people are free to come with their indigent patients for free services.

“Medical students and resident doctors are also supposed to benefit from the surgical mission,’’ Nwankwo said.

He noted challenges confronting the hospital to include welfare and remuneration of doctors, saying that the management was already discussing with government for improved working conditions.

– Oct. 31, 2018 @ 14:15 GMT |