The Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) has launched a partnership with the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board to widen access to free cleft surgeries and related care across communities in the state.
Funded by Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused charity, RSUTH provides free cleft services, including surgical repair, nutritional support, and psychological assistance.
The initiative noted that it has strengthened training for primary healthcare workers, enabling them to identify cases of cleft lip and palate early and refer to affected children and adults to RSUTH for immediate attention.
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Dr Oti Nimi Aria, Head of the Cleft and Craniofacial Surgery Team at RSUTH, reiterated the hospital’s commitment to ensuring that the life-changing service reaches people at the grassroots.
She explained that cleft lip repair is ideally performed at around three months of age, while palate repair is usually conducted at one year. However, she encouraged referral as early as birth so families can benefit from early feeding guidance and emotional support.
The partnership is expected to improve early detection, reduce delays in treatment, and ensure that children living with cleft conditions across Rivers State receive the care they need at no cost.
The notice urged the public to contact free cleft care through Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH), Port Harcourt and Phone line using O8063852267, 07035547698, and 08104122651.
