NAWOJ Pledges Stronger Media Partnership as COOUTH Unveils Major Reforms Under New CMD
By Chizoba Njaka
The Anambra State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has pledged continued support for the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Awka on July 17 following a courtesy visit to the institution's newly appointed Chief Medical Director (CMD), Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu.
The visit, led by the association Chairperson, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika, was aimed at congratulating Dr. Umeakuewulu on her appointment as the hospital's first female Chief Medical Director and familiarising with her, reviewing recent developments at the facility, and strengthening collaboration in advancing healthcare delivery through effective media engagement.
She restated the association's commitment to partnering with the hospital in promoting health programmes and increasing public awareness of critical health issues through responsible journalism.
During the meeting, Dr. Umeakuewulu unveiled a three-pronged strategy designed to reposition COOUTH as a centre of excellence through improved clinical services, enhanced staff capacity, and expanded research activities.
She disclosed that within three months of assuming office, the hospital had recorded remarkable progress, including the completion of 98 percent of its Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system, the introduction of a smart-card wallet payment platform with iCloud-backed access, installation of piped oxygen systems, procurement of modern medical equipment, and the reorganisation of critical clinical departments.
According to the CMD, the reforms are focused on improving operational efficiency and delivering better patient care. She added that the hospital is also undertaking major infrastructure upgrades, including the development of a private wing, expansion of laboratory facilities, renovation of the pharmacy and medical records units, installation of air-conditioning in clinics, and plans to introduce solar-powered facilities.
Dr. Umeakuewulu further explained that the laboratory has been restructured into specialised units covering microbiology, chemistry, and haematology, while a new orthopaedics department has been established to strengthen specialised healthcare services, medical training, and professional development.
She identified staff attitude and continuous capacity building as key priorities in achieving quality healthcare delivery. On the hospital's finances, the CMD noted that management systems have been strengthened with the support of financial partners and expressed confidence that the Anambra State Government would sustain its backing for the hospital's ongoing transformation.
The CMD expressed gratitude to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for the confidence reposed in her, pledging to give her best in elevating the institution to greater heights.
The both parties however, agreed to deepen their collaboration by using the media to publicise upcoming health campaigns, community outreach programmes, and other initiatives aimed at improving healthcare awareness and service delivery across Anambra State.