The National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi (NOHIL) in Lagos has initiated a significant program aimed at tackling foot deformities while enhancing the skills of local healthcare professionals. This initiative, in collaboration with Steps2Walk and the Global Health Charity and Training Foundation (GHCTF), commenced on August 10 and includes a five-day specialized training course alongside a medical outreach that has already provided free care to over 400 patients.
The program combines expert surgical training with community healthcare services, ensuring that both immediate medical needs and long-term educational goals are met. An international team of orthopaedic specialists from the United States, United Kingdom, Türkiye, and Pakistan are participating, sharing contemporary practices in the management of foot and ankle conditions with Nigerian medical professionals.
Dr. Wakeel Lawal, the Medical Director of NOHIL, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that it not only focuses on treating patients but also on transferring essential skills and knowledge to Nigerian specialists. "This will ultimately improve access to specialised foot and ankle services across the country and reduce the need for Nigerians to seek treatment abroad," he remarked.
The program includes lectures, clinical case presentations, and interactive sessions, culminating in 30 live surgical procedures scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. This hands-on experience is designed to give local practitioners the confidence and expertise needed to manage complex cases independently in the future.
Dr. John Lewis Ugbo, representing Steps2Walk, highlighted the organization's commitment to improving the management of orthopaedic deformities, particularly congenital clubfoot, which affects approximately three out of every 1,000 births. He stressed the importance of early intervention and appropriate treatment to prevent lifelong disabilities. "It is not just about coming here to do surgeries. It is about changing the approach to the management of orthopaedic deformities through early identification, appropriate treatment, and training," Ugbo stated.
The outreach component of the initiative has also been well-received, with 150 health volunteers assisting in providing free screenings for various health conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, and hepatitis B. Beneficiaries received essential medications and were linked to the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme for ongoing care.
Dr. Dayo Lajide, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, praised the collaboration between NOHIL, Steps2Walk, and GHCTF, emphasizing the critical role of partnerships in expanding access to quality healthcare. He commended the efforts of the volunteers and the leadership at NOHIL for their dedication to the community.
As the medical outreach continues at the General Hospital, Somolu, the initiative is set to further strengthen local expertise in managing foot and ankle conditions, paving the way for improved healthcare outcomes in Nigeria. The program represents a significant step towards reducing the burden of untreated foot deformities and enhancing the overall capacity of the healthcare system in the country.
Sources
- Vanguard News Original article
