By Tina Ezin, Calabar
Worried over increase of quackery in the healthcare industry, a Professor at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) said there is need to overhaul the sector.
A Professor of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, UNICAL, Anthony Emeribe made the call at the University’s 102nd Inaugural Lecture presentation in Calabar, with the theme; “SANGUIS: Gateway to Quality Human Disease Diagnosis, Management and Research”.
Prof. Emeribe said inadequate number of qualified personnel in most laboratories surveyed is worrisome as it does not align with sufficient numbers of training institutions and experts in the medical field in the country.
He recommended that this anomaly be addressed urgently with fresh recruitments and replacement of unqualified staff rendering medical laboratory investigations.
Stressing on the word, ‘Sanguis’ Latin word for Blood, the Haemologist said blood should not be toyed with because it is so critical that without it, there is no life.
The Don called on Nigerians to develop the habit of donating blood to save lives, as he recommended that stem transplantation centres be created in the six geo political zones in Nigeria with the right professionals in the healthcare sector.
He added, “We are happy with the President for signing the National Blood Transmission Commission Bill and we pray it should be given what it requires so that we have enough blood and also the software to know where they are mostly needed.
“There is need for improved infrastructure, displace quacks and improve the processes we have in place and also set up stem transplantation centres in the six geo political zones. Nigerians should develop the habit of becoming blood donors.” Prof. Emeribe recommended.”
Earlier in her remarks, the Chairman of the Lecture and Vice Chancellor Professor Florence Obi who was represented by Deputy VC, Prof. Micheal Okom pledged her commitment to the inaugural lectures, stating that the series have added value to scholarship in the institution.
