The Delta State Government has trained more than 50 medical doctors in cancer care, early detection and referral procedures ahead of the planned introduction of specialised oncology services at the Osubi Specialist Hospital, in a move aimed at improving access to cancer diagnosis and treatment across the state.
Key Highlights
- More than 50 doctors trained in cancer care, early detection and referral procedures.
- Osubi Specialist Hospital set to provide advanced cancer treatment services.
- Delta Government says the initiative will reduce the need for patients to seek specialised treatment outside the state.
- Approval granted for the recruitment of more than 700 health workers.
- Government introduces a tax-free MORE Specialist Allowance to attract and retain doctors.
The one-day capacity-building programme, organised by the Department of Medical Services and Training in the Delta State Ministry of Health, was held on Wednesday at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat in Asaba.
Speaking at the programme, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, said the training was designed to strengthen the capacity of frontline doctors to recognise cancer symptoms, conduct appropriate initial assessments and refer suspected cases promptly to specialists.
Onojaeme, who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Gloria Ferife, said the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was investing in specialised healthcare infrastructure and human resources to improve access to quality medical services.
He explained that the Osubi Specialist Hospital would provide advanced healthcare services, including modern oncology facilities, bringing specialised cancer treatment closer to residents and reducing the financial and logistical burden of travelling outside Delta for care.
Delta Expands Specialist Healthcare Services
The commissioner disclosed that the Delta State Government was also investing in modern medical equipment, revitalising primary healthcare centres and strengthening the healthcare workforce.
He added that approval had been granted for the recruitment of more than 700 health workers to improve service delivery across the state.
According to Onojaeme, the approval of the tax-free MORE Specialist Allowance for doctors was another measure aimed at attracting, motivating and retaining medical professionals in Delta’s health system.
He urged participating doctors to improve their knowledge of cancer warning signs, ensure timely referrals and maintain comprehensive clinical records to support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Onojaeme stressed that investment in specialist hospitals must be complemented by an efficient referral system that enables patients to access appropriate care without avoidable delays.
Early Cancer Detection Key to Better Treatment Outcomes
Earlier, the Director of Medical Services and Training, Dr. Uwomano Oghounu, said early detection, accurate diagnosis and prompt referral were critical to improving cancer treatment outcomes.
He explained that the training was intended to equip doctors with the knowledge and practical skills required to identify suspected cancer cases, make informed clinical decisions and refer patients to the appropriate specialists.
Oghounu also highlighted the importance of proper medical documentation, effective communication among healthcare professionals and continuity of care.
He urged participants to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the programme in their daily clinical practice to improve patient outcomes.
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Specialist Urges Doctors to Prepare for Osubi Hospital Services
A Consultant Radiologist at the Asaba Specialist Hospital, Dr. Daniel Isoje, commended the initiative and urged medical practitioners across Delta State to familiarise themselves with the planned oncology services and the referral procedures for accessing them.
Isoje said the availability of specialised cancer services within the state would help address some of the difficulties patients face when seeking treatment outside their immediate communities.
The training forms part of the state government’s broader efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery by combining investment in specialised medical facilities with professional development and effective referral systems.
With the planned introduction of oncology services at Osubi Specialist Hospital, the government aims to improve early cancer detection, facilitate timely referrals and expand access to specialised treatment for residents across Delta State.
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