Dala hospital offers free emergency care for accident victims, others

Dala Orthopaedic Hospital in Kano State has become the first healthcare facility in the state to implement the Federal Government’s National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS), offering 48 hours of free emergency treatment to indigent patients.

This development was announced by the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Nurudeen Isa, during a facility tour.

He described the move as a significant milestone in improving access to life-saving medical care for emergency cases, particularly among the underprivileged.

“Today marks a major step forward in emergency healthcare delivery,” Dr. Isa stated.

“Victims of road accidents, obstetric complications, snakebites, gunshot wounds, and other emergencies will now receive critical care at no cost for the first 48 hours upon arrival.”

The initiative is funded under NEMSAS, which is financed through one per cent of Nigeria’s consolidated revenue, as stipulated by the National Health Act.

Dr. Isa revealed that Dala Orthopaedic Hospital is the first in Kano to be accredited under this programme, with more hospitals expected to join soon.

Calling it a “game-changer,” Dr. Isa highlighted the role of fully equipped ambulances that will transport patients from across the state, eliminating financial barriers during emergencies.

He also noted that the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) would assist with evacuating accident victims, particularly from highways.

“These ambulances don’t just transport patients—they offer pre-hospital emergency care and maintain real-time communication with our facility, allowing treatment to begin en route,” he said.

“The objective is clear: reduce preventable deaths and complications through immediate intervention.”

Speaking on behalf of the NEMSAS National Programme Manager, Dr. Said Ahmed Dumbulwa, the Head of Operations, Dr. Emuren Doubra, explained that the initiative is part of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund.

Five per cent of the designated one per cent of federal revenue is allocated specifically for emergency medical services.

“This programme is designed to ensure that no Nigerian dies simply because they cannot afford emergency treatment,” Dr. Doubra emphasized.

He added that the initiative is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda for Health, under the leadership of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate.

The Star