By Okechukwu Onwuka/Chukwudi Nwauba
The Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Onitsha, Dr. Mercy Anugwu, has inaugurated the hospital’s Comprehensive Emergency Obstetrics and Newborn Care (CEmONC) team.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Anugwu described the development as a significant milestone in advancing emergency maternal and newborn healthcare services within the institution.
She called on members of the CEmONC team to demonstrate unwavering commitment, professionalism, and teamwork in carrying out their responsibilities, reiterating the hospital’s commitment to delivering quality, efficient, and life-saving healthcare services to the public.
The Chief Medical Director noted that the 2022 upgrade of Onitsha General Hospital to a Federal Medical Centre by the Federal Government marked a turning point for the institution.
“This upgrade has brought increased funding, advanced equipment, and more consultants, ultimately enhancing our ability to deliver quality healthcare services,” she stated.
She also explained that the establishment of the CEmONC team would play a pivotal role in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in Anambra State.
“Your primary responsibility is to provide comprehensive emergency obstetrics and newborn care. Ensure that patients receive timely, effective, and safe treatment. I urge you to work together as a cohesive team, always prioritizing patient care and safety,” the CMD charged the team..
Highlighting the need for continued medical capacity building, collaboration, and research, Dr Anugwu expressed confidence in the team’s potential impact.
“I have no doubt that with your dedication and expertise, we will make a significant impact on the lives of our patients. With the authority vested on me, I hereby inaugurate this great CEmONC team,” she declared.
The Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Thyword Agu, also addressed the gathering, encouraging the team to uphold the hospital’s core values while remaining steadfast in efforts to reduce preventable maternal and neonatal deaths.
Dr. Agu said that the CEmONC team is to ensure that comprehensive maternal services gets to all. The indigent can now obtain services without pay. All thanks to Federal Government.Similarly, the Director of Administration, Barr. Caleb Ihuoma, commended the leadership strides and innovations achieved under Dr. Anugwu’s administration, and urged the CEmONC team to justify the confidence reposed in them by delivering exceptional service to the hospital community.
Responding on behalf of the team, the CEmONC Chairman, Dr. Ekpelinwa, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them and assured the hospital management of the team’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate without hesitation.
