Access to quality healthcare is a right, not a privilege, doctors say

The West African Medical College has stated that access to quality healthcare is not just a privilege but a fundamental human right.

The WACP President, Rose Macaulay, stated this on Saturday during a medical activity organized by the college for residents of Kuje in the Federal Capital Territory marking the 48th Annual Scientific and General Meeting held in Abuja with the theme “Systems Strengthening of Health in West Africa: Opportunities and Challenges.”

She said: “Access to quality healthcare is not just a privilege but a fundamental right that every citizen deserves. This medical intervention is a testament to WACP’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind, regardless of their location or economic status.

“This medical program is more than a service; it is a lifeline for many who have been unable to access regular medical care.
We hope that those individuals consulted by doctors today continue to seek care at health facilities near them. It is the collective responsibility of providers to look after the health of our people and that starts with an initiative like this.”

The Chairman of Kuje Zonal Council of the FCT, Abdullahi Sabo, also pointed out that the medical activities underline the commitment of the WACP to improve the accessibility of healthcare.

Sabo, represented by Mohammed-Gimba Ebbo, stressed that the importance of healthcare cannot be overstated as many residents face challenges in accessing quality healthcare due to financial constraints, geographical barriers and lack of awareness.

The President noted that medical services bridge many gaps by providing free medical services, consultations, screenings and treatments to those who need them most.

“This initiative underscores the college’s commitment to improving the accessibility and quality of health care in our community.

“The importance of this medical activity cannot be overstated. Many residents face challenges accessing quality healthcare due to financial constraints, geographic barriers or lack of awareness.

“This outreach bridges that gap by providing free medical services, consultations, screenings and treatments to those who need them most.

“The benefits of this work are many, especially in early detection and treatment of diseases, improving health awareness and education, improving the quality of life for beneficiaries and strengthening the health care infrastructure in our community,” Sabo noted.

The Chief of Gomo Palace, Alhaji Haruna Jilbrin, who commended the sensitization of the doctors, stressed that healthcare is a service to humanity.