Ofure Akhigbe
The Federal Government has inaugurated an emergency call centre and ambulance system in Cross River State to provide timely and efficient medical services, particularly during flooding, fire outbreaks, road accidents, and other emergencies.
The launch took place on Tuesday at the General Hospital in Calabar, the state capital. Professor Muhammad Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, was represented by Dr. Doubra Emuren, Programmes Manager of the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System.
Dr. Emuren explained that the initiative is designed to deliver emergency medical services to all Nigerians, especially the poor and vulnerable, by offering pre-hospital care and ambulance transport.
He said, “The Emergency Medical Treatment Gateway is one of the gateways within the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund under the National Health Act that ensures that no individual, poor or vulnerable, has to die as a result of lack of funding during emergencies. This is key to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for Health, exemplified through the Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative. Whenever you request an ambulance using a number, the government will provide it; anybody who needs emergency services will be picked up and taken to a hospital ready to serve the patient.”
Dr. David Ushie, Technical Adviser to the Cross River State Governor on Universal Health Coverage, highlighted that the initiative provides unhindered access to life-saving healthcare, aligning with Governor Bassey Otu’s “People’s First Agenda.”
He said, “A call centre has been established to address healthcare-related complaints and concerns, ensuring prompt responses and quality care. The centre is equipped with broadband internet, 24-hour power supply, and trained staff. The state has introduced an emergency ambulance service, with five ambulances initially, and plans to integrate private and public ambulance services. This initiative ensures that no one is left behind in emergency situations.”
Chief Godwin Iyala, Director-General of the Cross River State Health Insurance Agency, described the launch of the Emergency Medical Treatment Gateway as “exciting and a welcome development,” noting that it would address healthcare challenges faced by residents, particularly in emergency situations.
The Otu-led administration affirmed its commitment to ensuring all residents have access to quality emergency healthcare services, regardless of financial status or location.