As part of efforts to commemorate this year’s World Kidney Day, a group in Delta State, the Progressive Health Forum (PHF), at the weekend kicked off a statewide health initiative, providing free Arteriovenous (AV) Fistula surgeries for patients battling chronic kidney disease in the state.

According to the organisers, the exercise is designed to revolutionise hemodialysis management and ease the financial burden on patients across Delta’s three senatorial districts.

They stressed that the programme aimed to prioritise AV fistula, the global ‘gold standard’ for vascular access as a safer, long-term alternative to temporary catheters, which are often fraught with complications and high infection rates.

Speaking, the group’s Chairman, Dr Ogbo James, described the programme as a strategic contribution by healthcare professionals towards strengthening the state’s health system.

“The Progressive Health Workers Forum is a multi-disciplinary coalition of healthcare professionals dedicated to nation-building. Our mission is to work closely with both the federal and Delta State governments to ensure that quality healthcare is not a luxury, but a standard for all Nigerians,” he stated.

He appreciated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his drive in modernising medical infrastructure, as well as the Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme.

Corroborating the impact of the government’s investments, the Chief Medical Director, Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, Prof. Emmanuel Akpo, highlighted the unprecedented influx of high-end diagnostic tools.

“We have seen a remarkable transformation in our facilities. From advanced CT scanners and MRI systems to new dialysis units and ventilators, the tools required for world-class medicine are now available. This initiative by the PHF builds on this foundation of improved medical capacity,” Akpo said.