As I reflect on my mother’s six-month ordeal at the University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), I am compelled to share our distressing experience. The hospital’s alarming shortcomings necessitate attention and reform.
One glaring issue was the hospital’s policy of compulsory feeding. Patients are forced to purchase hospital food at an exorbitant cost of #2000, without alternative options. The food quality was shockingly poor, comparable to, or even worse than, prison food. This raises concerns about patient nutrition and well-being.
The workforce was woefully overstretched, with patient relatives often shouldering responsibilities. I witnessed family members administering IV fluids and medications due to staff shortages. This is unacceptable and poses serious health risks.
My mother’s surgery was canceled four times due to systemic failures:
Also Read: Medical Negligence Claims the Life of UNIPORT Student at UPTH
- A registrar’s oversight regarding medication.
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A conference attendance by the entire medical team.
- A nurse’s instruction for my mother to eat on the morning of the operation.
- Another cancellation due to administrative errors.
Frustrated, I transferred my mother to a private hospital for the surgery and then returned her to UPTH.
– An alarming infestation of mosquitoes posed health risks.
– Overgrown grass created an eyesore and potential hiding spots for animals.
Our experience, despite having medical professional connections, was daunting. I worry about the struggles common patients face without such networks.
Others have shared similar experiences:
– “UPTH is something else.”
– “I wouldn’t advise anyone to seek medical attention there.”Awaji Godspower.
Gift Okeke also said “ When the foundation is destroyed what can the righteous do? Federal Hospital for that matter, I feel for this country.
another concerned fellow also said “Thank God your mum came back alive, mine went there and never returned, my big sister also went there 4 years ago and never returned because of the nurse’s carelessness. I pray nothing will ever take me and my loved ones there ever again”.-Gracefilled Sharon
The University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital must acknowledge and address these systemic issues to provide better healthcare services. Patients deserve quality care, not compromises.
