FG calls for integrated diagnostic services to enhance healthcare delivery

By Ifeoma Nwovu

The Federal Government has urged all stakeholders and partners to ensure the continuous integration of diagnostic services within the healthcare system, leveraging multiple technologies and maximising the contributions of all diagnostic professionals.

Speaking at the National Summit in Abuja, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziak Salako, stressed that such integration was essential for improving efficiency, eliminating service duplication, and ensuring the optimal use of resources in healthcare delivery.

Addressing the theme “Unlocking Healthcare Value Chains and Improving Universal Health Coverage through Integrated Diagnostic Services,” Dr Salako highlighted that the initiative formed a key component of the Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that it had the potential to save foreign exchange, create jobs, lower healthcare costs, reduce medical tourism, and enhance both the economy and the health status of Nigerians.

“Without effective diagnostics, we cannot achieve any of the four pillars of the health sector renewal investment initiative. This approach will help address long-standing challenges in diagnostic services, including fragmentation, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to high-quality services, particularly in underserved communities,” he stated.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, represented by the Director of Hospital Services, Salaudeen Jimoh, reiterated the critical role of diagnostics in healthcare, noting that they influence over 70% of medical decisions and are fundamental to effective service delivery.

“This summit provides a unique opportunity to assess our progress, identify challenges, and develop actionable strategies to transform Nigeria’s diagnostic landscape,” he added.

Speaking on behalf of the World Health Organisation’s Country Representative, Dr Laxmikant Chavan reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting the Federal Ministry of Health and the Medical Laboratory Services Division. He emphasised efforts to advance laboratory services, strengthen diagnostic networks, and ensure sustainable access to high-quality diagnostics for all Nigerians.

“We are also supporting technology transfer and skills development in cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, as well as training IBD auditors on quality assurance and risk management, which has led to the ISO certification of national in-vitro diagnostic staff of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria,” he stated.