Thousands benefit from JEF’s free medical care in Cross River
The recently concluded Free Medical Outreach program, organized by the Jennifer Etuh Foundation (JEF) in collaboration with Pro-Health International, has successfully provided medical assistance to 2,811 patients in Obubra LGA of Cross River state.
The program, which took place from January 25th to January 30th, 2024, coincided with the commissioning of the Jennifer Etuh Medical Centre, Ochon, Obubra.
The center was inaugurated on January 26th, with the Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk.
To improve healthcare in the state and its surrounding areas, the outreach program welcomed a team of dedicated medical professionals.
These experts offered a wide range of services, including medical consultations, general and specialized surgeries, ophthalmology, dental care, free medications, health promotion, obstetrics and gynecology, general medical services, and laboratory services.
According to Mr. Joseph Otu, the Program Manager of the Jennifer Etuh Foundation, the outreach program was a resounding success.
The achievement enumerated by the Foundation’s Board Chairman, Mr. Thomas Etuh, showcased the impact of the initiative to include the following:
General Surgeries: Carried out in 91 patients.
Eye Surgery: Performed on 100 individuals.
Eye Care patients seen: 681.
Eyeglasses provided: 414.
Laboratory tests conducted: 1,432
Laboratory patients screened: 566
Pharmacy patients seen: 1,137
Dental patients seen: 224
Dental Procedures: 605
Health Promotion: Reaching 148 individuals Consulting patients seen: 1,567
These figures highlight the comprehensive nature of the outreach program, addressing a wide range of medical needs for the local community.
The chairman further states that the provision of general and specialized surgeries, eye care services, dental treatments, and laboratory tests showcases the commitment to improving the overall health and well-being of the beneficiaries.
Stressing that the program’s success can be attributed to the concerted efforts of Jennifer Etuh Foundation, Pro-Health International, and the skilled medical professionals who generously volunteered their expertise.
He said the dedication and commitment of the volunteered medical experts played a vital role in ensuring the smooth execution of the medical outreach,” the chairman said.
Maintaining that by partnering with Pro-Health International and establishing the Jennifer Etuh Medical Centre, the Jennifer Etuh Foundation has made significant strides in its mission to offer accessible and quality healthcare services to underserved communities.
The collaboration between the foundation and the government of Cross River State reaffirms the commitment to prioritize the health and well-being of its citizens.
The impact of the Free Medical Outreach program extends beyond the numbers alone. It signifies a tangible demonstration of compassion and dedication to the welfare of the community.
The provision of free medications, health promotion initiatives, and consultations emphasizes the importance of preventative care and early intervention in maintaining good health.
Etuh stated that “JEF has intervened in the education and empowerment of women and girls from different walks of life with support ranging from educational fees, full scholarship, menstrual hygiene kits, palliative, relief materials to internally displaced victims of insecurity, Vocational skills training, training on Improved agricultural practices for women farmers and educational starter packs starter packs for children”.
JEF’s vision is a multifaceted approach to creating a society where disadvantaged women and girls have access to quality education, healthcare, and skills programs.
He said, “We are contributing our bit towards a Nigeria where no female is hindered from realizing her full potential due to financial constraints or limited resources and opportunities”
Meanwhile, In January 2021, the Foundation was established and has already constructed five hospitals. These hospitals include the Jennifer Etuh Medical Center, Jennifer Etuh Medical Center (JEMC), Tula, Gombe State, and the Jennifer Etuh Medical Centre, Ochon in Obubura LGA Cross River State.
The management of these hospitals has been entrusted to various institutions with a proven track record in hospital management. The Jennifer Etuh Specialist Hospital in Kagoro is under the management of Bingham University.
The Jennifer Etuh Medical Center in Kogi is managed by the Catholic Diocese of Idah, while the Jennifer Etuh Medical Center – Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) oversees the operations of another hospital. Lastly, the Jennifer Etuh Medical Centre in Tula, Gombe State is being managed directly by the foundation.
The most recent addition to the list is the Jennifer Etuh Medical Centre in Ochon, Obubura LGA, Cross River, which is now under the management of Pro-Health International, led by Dr. Iko Ibanga.
The foundation has implemented a strategy of employing community-based field officers who serve as the primary point of contact between the hospital management and the foundation. These officers play a crucial role in reporting activities and deliverables to the foundation’s office, establishing a seamless flow of information.
“This proactive approach enables ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and learning within the foundation. By collecting and analyzing relevant data, the foundation can make informed, data-driven decisions regarding the operations and progress of the hospitals. This valuable information helps identify areas of improvement, recognize successful practices, and make necessary adjustments to enhance the overall quality of healthcare services provided”.
He said “The Jennifer Etuh Foundation maintains an active role in overseeing and supporting the management of these hospitals. This commitment ensures that the hospitals consistently deliver high-quality healthcare services to the communities they serve. By actively participating in the management process, the foundation can provide guidance, resources, and support to address any challenges that may arise”
“Through this collaborative approach, the foundation fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation in the healthcare sector. By leveraging ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and learning, the Jennifer Etuh Foundation strives to create sustainable positive impact and make a meaningful difference in the lives of the communities it serves”.
Meanwhile, the JenniferEtuh Foundation (JEF) was launched on February 16, 2021, in honor of Mrs. Jennifer Rematu Etuh, who was known for her humanitarian work. Mrs. Etuh was dedicated to supporting those in need, particularly disadvantaged women and girls, by providing them with educational and vocational support and other opportunities for economic empowerment.
Before her death, she outlined her vision for the foundation, which included the establishment of six hospitals across the six geopolitical zones.
The Jennifer Etuh Medical Centre in Ochon, located in the Obubra LGA, is the third hospital to be built by the foundation. The hospitals are being constructed by Mr. Thomas Etuh as a tribute to his late wife, who passed away on January 26, 2020.
