Chijioke Iremeka Physicians have said that establishing Very Important Personality clinics across teaching hospitals in the country will not make healthcare affordable and accessible for many Nigerians. They, however, believe it may spur medical tourism within Nigeria and reduce the rate of medical treatment abroad among wealthy Nigerians and government functionaries in the long run. The physicians pointed out that instead of addressing the issue of healthcare affordability for all, more resources that could be used in developing and making public hospitals accessible to the general public would be diverted to VIP clinics catering to the wealthy and powerful few.
They emphasised that since the VIP clinic in a teaching hospital is not targeted at the poor masses, ordinary citizens cannot afford its exclusive services and thus would not benefit from such high-level healthcare. These professionals voiced their concerns against the backdrop of the government’s plan to construct a VIP clinic at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi. According to the Chief Medical Director of the facility, Dr Steven Hwande, the Benue State University Teaching Hospital is preparing to establish a VIP Clinic to serve prominent individuals who require privacy.
He disclosed this during a press briefing held on July 17 to announce the upcoming 2024 International Investment Summit, a medical scientific exhibition featuring displays of medical equipment. Hwande said, “Benue State Uni.