FG Starts Nationwide Distribution Of Ambulances, Tricycles For Emergency Care
Federal Government Begins Distribution of Advanced Life Support Ambulances
The Federal Government has initiated a nationwide distribution of Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances and tricycle ambulances to enhance emergency medical response and improve healthcare access in rural and underserved areas.
Daju Kachollom, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, made the announcement on Monday during a flag-off ceremony at the National Trauma Centre in Riyom, Plateau State.
Kachollom explained that the initiative aims to address transportation challenges in hard-to-reach communities, emphasizing that delays in accessing medical care can significantly impact survival rates.
“This program will particularly support emergency responses related to maternal and newborn health, childhood illnesses, road accidents, and other trauma cases,” Kachollom said. She stressed the urgency of timely transportation in emergency situations, noting that mere minutes can determine the outcome of a medical crisis.
The Permanent Secretary also revealed that Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, has approved the designation of Riyom General Hospital as an outpost of the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) in partnership with the Plateau State Government.
Kachollom commended the state government for its cooperation and urged local authorities in Plateau and other beneficiary states to take responsibility for the management and maintenance of the ambulances, ensuring they are effectively deployed and monitored.
She stated that the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) would serve as a framework for coordinating emergency services nationwide. The success of this program, according to Kachollom, will be measured not by the number of ambulances delivered, but by the number of lives saved and preventable deaths reduced.
Representing Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo praised President Bola Tinubu for the initiative, calling the ambulances a vital investment in emergency healthcare. She highlighted that the vehicles would facilitate timely patient transportation, enhance referrals between healthcare facilities, and strengthen emergency response capabilities, particularly in challenging terrains.
Piyo assured the Federal Government that the ambulances would be effectively utilized and well-maintained.
The Chief Medical Director of JUTH reported that the emergency transport initiative has produced notable results, with approximately 1,115 patients transported in Jos East Local Government Area and over 900 in Riyom. He noted that only one maternal death occurred in Jos East within the past six months, while Riyom reported none. The maternal mortality rate in Plateau State has decreased from around 905 to approximately 500 deaths per 100,000 live births, with hopes of bringing it down to about 100.
He expressed gratitude for the additional ten tricycle ambulances provided to Plateau State by the Federal Ministry of Health.
Bature Sati Shuwa, Chairman of Riyom Local Government Area, welcomed the establishment of the JUTH outpost in Riyom, stating it would attract patients from surrounding communities and improve access to specialized healthcare services. He acknowledged the support of federal and state governments and other stakeholders for this initiative.
