The Delta State Government has trained more than 50 medical doctors in cancer care, early detection and referral procedures as part of efforts to expand access to specialised oncology services in the state.
The training comes ahead of the planned introduction of advanced cancer treatment services at the Osubi Specialist Hospital, which is being constructed by the state government to reduce the need for patients to travel outside Delta for specialised medical care.
The one-day capacity-building programme, organised by the Department of Medical Services and Training in the State Ministry of Health, was held on Wednesday at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat, Asaba.
Speaking at the programme, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, said the initiative was designed to strengthen the capacity of frontline doctors to recognise cancer symptoms, conduct appropriate initial assessments and refer suspected cases promptly to specialists.
Onojaeme, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Gloria Ferife, said the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was investing in specialised healthcare infrastructure and human resources to improve access to quality medical services.
He said the Osubi Specialist Hospital would provide advanced healthcare services, including state-of-the-art oncology facilities, to bring specialised cancer treatment closer to residents and reduce the burden of seeking care outside the state.
The commissioner also disclosed that the government was investing in modern medical equipment, revitalising primary healthcare centres and strengthening the health workforce.
He added that approval had been granted for the recruitment of more than 700 health workers to improve healthcare delivery across the state.
According to him, the approval of the tax-free MORE Specialist Allowance for doctors was another measure aimed at attracting, motivating and retaining medical professionals in the state's health system.
He urged the participating doctors to improve their knowledge of cancer warning signs, ensure timely referrals and maintain comprehensive clinical records to support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Onojaeme stressed that investment in specialised hospitals must be complemented by an efficient referral system that enables patients to access appropriate care without avoidable delays.
Earlier, the Director of Medical Services and Training, Dr. Uwomano Oghounu, said early detection, accurate diagnosis and prompt referral were critical to improving cancer treatment outcomes.
He explained that the training was intended to equip the doctors with the knowledge and practical skills required to identify suspected cancer cases, make informed clinical decisions and refer patients to the appropriate specialists.
Oghounu also emphasised the importance of proper medical documentation, effective communication among healthcare professionals and continuity of care, urging participants to apply the knowledge acquired in their daily clinical practice.
A Consultant Radiologist at the Asaba Specialist Hospital, Dr. Daniel Isoje, commended the initiative and urged medical practitioners across the state to familiarise themselves with the planned oncology services and the referral procedures for accessing them.
Isoje said the availability of specialised cancer services within Delta would help address some of the difficulties patients encounter when seeking treatment outside their immediate environment.
The initiative underscores the importance of combining investment in specialised healthcare facilities with professional training and effective referral systems to improve early cancer detection and access to treatment across the state.
