Private hospitals in Nigeria are facing tough times, struggling to stay open as economic conditions worsen. The Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP) recently shared the reality that many private hospitals are barely surviving, with patient numbers dropping while costs skyrocket.
Dr. Odia Festus Ihongbe, the chairman of ANPMP, revealed a startling trend: while hospital beds often remain empty, mortuaries are filling up. The harsh economy is leading many Nigerians to avoid hospitals until their conditions become critical. Some people try to treat themselves by searching symptoms online and buying over-the-counter drugs. Unfortunately, by the time they seek proper medical care, it’s often too late. Dr. Odia explained that in some cases, patients are left at hospitals when families can’t afford funeral expenses, turning hospitals into unplanned mortuaries.
Nigeria’s recent minimum wage increase to N70,000 is putting additional strain on private hospitals. With private facilities employing around 80% of the country’s healthcare workers, paying this wage has become difficult. As Dr. Odia notes, even hiring a basic team of cleaners now requires more than many hospitals can afford.
Alongside wage pressures, the costs of essential medical supplies and equipment have soared. Forex challenges have pushed prices to extreme levels. For instance, an oxygen machine that once cost N25,000 is now priced at up to N2 million, making it harder for hospitals to provide affordable care. Dr. Odia pointed out that other essential items, such as paracetamol and syringes, have also seen massive price increases.
An improved health insurance system could help reduce the burden on private hospitals, but the national health insurance program in Nigeria has struggled for over two decades. It covers only about 4% of the population, offering very little financial support to hospitals. While the government recently adjusted the premium, increasing it slightly, the amount remains too low to make a meaningful difference for most patients or hospitals.
As the economic downturn continues, access to quality healthcare becomes even more challenging for Nigerians. ANPMP’s chairman warns that without urgent action, private hospitals will continue to close, leaving patients with fewer options for care. He concludes that unless Nigeria commits to strengthening its healthcare system and addressing funding issues, more lives could be at risk.
In summary, Nigeria’s private hospitals are in a difficult position, with rising costs, a challenging wage environment, and limited patient access. Unless there is substantial support, the healthcare sector may struggle to meet the needs of Nigeria’s population.
