A UK-based Nigerian physician, Dr Tokunbo Fasuyi, has said that prioritizing trust, transparency and accountability could significantly improve patient care and strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Fasuyi, the Founder of Aegis Private Health Consultancy, made this known in an interview with reporters on Monday.
He stressed that trust was central to the doctor–patient relationship, noting that poor communication often left patients frustrated and confused.
Recalling his medical training in the United Kingdom, Fasuyi said he learned the importance of explaining complex medical issues in simple terms.
“You must be able to communicate with a five-year-old and ensure they understand what you are saying,” he said.
He emphasized that patients deserved clear explanations about their health conditions and should be encouraged to ask questions until they were satisfied.
“That is one area we need to pay serious attention to in Nigeria’s healthcare system,” he added.
Fasuyi noted that effective treatment outcomes depended on patients having confidence in their doctors, health facilities and the overall care environment.
To address challenges Nigerians face in accessing quality healthcare, he said Aegis Healthcare had introduced a physician-led service designed to bridge gaps in trust, expertise and care delivery.
According to him, the service provides personalized medical guidance and care coordination, drawing on the experience of doctors trained and practicing within the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
He explained that Aegis Healthcare focuses on three main areas: coordinating medical care between Nigeria and the UK to ensure smooth transitions and informed decision-making; providing second medical opinions to help patients gain clarity and confidence; and offering continuous health guidance and patient advocacy.
“By partnering with reputable Nigerian health facilities and offering virtual consultations, Aegis Healthcare promotes local healthcare solutions while maintaining global standards,” he said.
Fasuyi added that the service empowers Nigerians to make informed health decisions by bridging local healthcare challenges with global medical opportunities.
He said that while the service caters largely to high-net-worth individuals seeking specialist treatment abroad, it also has a strong social responsibility component.
According to him, Aegis Healthcare operates a give-back mandate that provides support to individuals who cannot afford such services.
Fasuyi further stressed the need to hold healthcare providers accountable through effective regulation, monitoring and enforcement.
He said these measures were critical to tackling medical quackery and restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s health system.
