The Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojeame, on Tuesday, disclosed that the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) has made huge strides in securing crucial departmental accreditations.
Speaking after a meeting of DELSUTH management with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the Government House in Asaba, Dr. Onojeame confirmed that the surgery department has already received accreditation from the National West African College of Surgeons, while other departments, including radiology and dental services, are in the process of securing theirs.
He highlighted the progress made in the hospital, particularly following the governor’s approval of essential equipment, such as a CT scan and upcoming provisions for echocardiography and MRI machines, adding that once the CT scan is installed, the radiology department will obtain full accreditation.
“The management of DELSUTH appreciates His Excellency for his commitment to improving the hospital,” Dr. Onojeame said.
Dr. Onojeame also acknowledged the hospital’s internal revenue growth, which has played a pivotal role in addressing financial obligations, including settling over N260 million in electricity bills.
Read also: Ukodhiko celebrates Ex-Delta Governor, Uduaghan at 70
He emphasized that DELSUTH’s leadership is working hard to ensure all departments meet accreditation standards, noting that the physiotherapy unit has also recently achieved full accreditation.
In his remarks, Prof. Jude Uchendu, Acting Chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) at DELSUTH, reinforced the importance of the hospital’s accreditation efforts.
“Accreditation is a continuous process, especially for a teaching hospital. Departments like surgery have already gained full accreditation, and others like internal medicine and radiology are next in line,” he said.
Uchendu explained that accreditation is crucial for DELSUTH’s standing as a premier teaching hospital in the region.
He said, “While some departments have partial accreditation, the hospital is actively working with the state government to meet the standards required for full accreditation across all departments.”
Additionally, Prof. Uchendu disclosed some internal challenges faced by the hospital, including non-payment of salary increments and equipment shortages.
He however, expressed confidence in Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, stating, “We have a governor who listens and is willing to make necessary changes. His support has been reassuring, and we are optimistic about the future.”
“Despite these challenges, DELSUTH remains committed to achieving full accreditation for all its departments. With the governor’s continued support and the hospital’s growing internal revenue, the teaching hospital is set to enhance its services and further its role in training healthcare professionals.
The hospital’s management team continues to engage with the government to ensure that all necessary resources are provided, positioning DELSUTH as a leading healthcare institution in Delta State and beyond,” he stated.