The University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) recently welcomed a delegation from the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) for an on-site facility assessment focused on emergency healthcare delivery.

The assessment team, led by Mr. Salihu Abubakar, included Mr. Aburu Agada, Mrs. Siahnom Fomnfod-R. Ruth, Mrs. Fatima Cimna, and Mr. Hakim S. Dickson. The visit began with a courtesy call on hospital management before proceeding on a guided tour of UPTH’s emergency facilities.

The NEMSAS delegation was received by Prof. Datonye Alasia, Chief Medical Advisory Committee Chairman (CMAC), who represented the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Henry Ugboma. Other members of UPTH management present were DCMACs Prof. Bashiru Braimoh and Dr. Eneh Nkoyo, alongside Dr. Barile Ikpea, Dr. Felix Woboso, Prof. Vaduneme Oriji, Prof. Nsirimobu Paul, and Dr. Ijeoma Ogbebor.

The primary objective of the visit was to assess UPTH’s emergency care infrastructure as a prerequisite for inclusion in the Sharing Facility Pathway—a national strategy for delivering emergency medical services and ambulance transportation across the country.

According to the delegation, this initiative is in alignment with the vision of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Services, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, to improve access to life-saving emergency medical services and to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity, especially in the Niger Delta and across Nigeria.

In appreciation, UPTH management expressed gratitude for the assessment and the certification of one of its ambulances under the emergency care unit. The CMD, through Prof. Alasia, reassured the NEMSAS team of UPTH’s unwavering commitment to upholding national standards in emergency medical services.