By Blessing Bature
Health experts urged federal government to ensure the integration of self-care into the national health strategy, noting it is a sure way to reduce the pressure on the country’s health systems.
The Head of Reproductive Health at the Federal Ministry of Health, Dr Samuel Oyeniyi, noted that self-care is a cost-effective and sustainable strategy for improving outcomes in the country’s healthcare system and increasing access to care for individuals and communities.
Urging the government to create more awareness on self-care, he emphasised that self-care will supplement health services rather than replace direct interaction with the system.
In a presentation at a virtual self-care awareness-building workshop for media professionals, organised by the White Ribbon Alliance Nigeria, Dr Oyeniyi noted, “Self-care shall not be a cost-shifting mechanism from the government or existing health care financing structure to clients. It shall be safe, effective, and able to reach individuals who may not be able to access health services”.
He said, “During the COVID-19 period, many people didn’t know what to do and couldn’t access healthcare services.
“This is why we must now look back and ask how the quality of care be improved even from our homes? Self-care must become part of our lives, individually, as families, and as communities.”
The Chairperson, Board of Trustees at White Ribbon Alliance Nigeria, Dr Nana Chidi Emmanuel on her part, emphasised the role of media professionals in creating awareness on self care.
She said, “Self-care represents a fundamental shift in how we approach healthcare delivery, empowering individuals with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to take greater control of their health.
Speaking on behalf of the Self-Care Trailblazer Group, George Kapiyo, said self-care addresses access gaps in health services, especially in low-resource settings.
“It supports health equity and autonomy, especially for marginalised populations; reduces burden on overstretched health systems and facilities; addresses shortages in the health workforce; and enhances autonomy and health literacy among individuals.
