Dr. Hassan Garba, the Chief Medical Director of Phalycon Clinic in Bauchi, says that the high cost of medical supplies and drugs is one of the main reasons why healthcare is becoming more expensive.
He said this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Bauchi on Tuesday.
Dr. Garba, a private doctor, said he is worried that the rising prices are making it harder for people to pay for healthcare.
He explained that because of these high costs, many people are finding it difficult to get the treatment and medicines they need, which is stopping Nigeria from achieving healthcare for everyone.
Dr. Garba suggested that the federal government should focus on changing tax policies in the health sector to make things better.
He said, “Medical services are available, but people can’t afford them. The high prices of supplies and medicines are affecting people’s health.”
He added that if the government stops taxing health-related items, it would help improve health conditions in Nigeria.
Some people living in Bauchi city also shared their thoughts.
One resident, Alhaji Inuwa Fada, said it costs about N3,000 to treat malaria, and that doesn’t even include lab tests. He said, “We often get malaria, and each time, treatment alone costs about N3,000. This is because the rainy season increases malaria cases.”
Another resident, Mr. Bala Musa, also said that while health services are available, the high cost of drugs is still a big problem. He praised the Bauchi State Government for starting a drug revolving fund but said more money should be invested to help the growing population.
