In a significant milestone for Nigeria’s healthcare sector, the Federal Government has unveiled the country’s first non-surgical spinal decompression centre in Abuja.
This state-of-the-art facility is designed to provide advanced healthcare services nationwide, particularly for patients suffering from chronic pain.
The centre was unveiled by the Minister of Health, Muhammad Pate, represented by the Director of Hospital Services, Salaudeen Jimoh.
Jimoh emphasized that the opening of the centre aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on Health, which prioritizes improved healthcare access for Nigerians.
Services Offered
The centre provides non-surgical alternatives for patients, offering an option beyond surgery and long-term medication use.
According to Doctor Craig Slapinski, Clinical Director and co-founder of the Spine and Nerve Centre, “We are just letting people know that there is an alternative to surgery, to chronic pain medication. And letting them know that there is hope elsewhere.”
Benefits and Future Plans
The centre aims to reduce the need for Nigerians to travel abroad for treatment. Slapinski noted that many Nigerians had been travelling to Ghana for treatment before the Abuja centre was established.
The centre plans to expand its services, hiring more staff and equipment, and opening additional locations in the next two years.
Government Support
Slapinski commended the Nigerian government for its support, particularly in streamlining the licensing and registration process. This allowed the centre to commence operations without unnecessary delays.
The unveiling of this centre marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, providing new hope for patients suffering from chronic pain.