By Chizoba Okeke
The Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Health has lauded the management of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, for what it described as remarkable strides in healthcare modernization, particularly the introduction of a smart card system, extensive digitalization of medical records, renovation of the emergency department, and the ongoing oxygen reticulation project.
The commendation came during an oversight visit on 24th June to the tertiary health institution led by the Chairman of the Committee, Honourable Tony Muobike, where members inspected ongoing projects and received briefings on reforms being implemented by the hospital’s management.
Addressing the lawmakers, the Chief Medical Director of COOUTH, Dr. Maureen Umeakuewulu, said her administration had embarked on a comprehensive transformation agenda aimed at repositioning the hospital as a world-class healthcare and research institution.
“Our vision is to build a globally competitive healthcare facility driven by quality service delivery, cutting-edge research, staff development, and digital innovation,” Dr. Umeakuewulu stated.
“When I assumed office, I discovered that our emergency unit did not meet the minimum standards required for efficient healthcare delivery. We immediately initiated a comprehensive renovation to ensure that patients receive prompt and quality emergency care,” she explained.
“This project will eliminate dependence on oxygen cylinders during emergencies. With oxygen piped directly to patients’ bedsides, access will be faster, safer, and more reliable, thereby improving survival outcomes,” she noted.
“We have computerized patient records and secured them through cloud-based technology to guarantee easy access, proper management, and long-term preservation of medical information,” she said.
“With the smart card, patients can access their medical records, make payments electronically, and move across departments without carrying physical folders. The card also comes with a wallet feature that allows family members to remotely fund the treatment of their loved ones, especially elderly patients,” Dr. Umeakuewulu explained.
Responding, the Chairman of the Committee Honourable Tony Muobike, commended the CMD and her management team for the visible transformation taking place within the hospital.
“What we have seen today is highly commendable. The level of innovation, infrastructure upgrade, and commitment to quality healthcare delivery is impressive. The management deserves recognition for these efforts,” Muobike stated.
“The House remains committed to supporting initiatives that will strengthen healthcare delivery, improve staff welfare, address pension and promotion concerns, and ensure adequate funding for our health institutions,” he said.
“We encourage the management to communicate its challenges to the House. We are ready to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure lasting solutions are provided,” Muobike added.
Also speaking during the visit, the member representing Orumba South Constituency, Hon. Emma Nwafor, and his Aguata One counterpart, Honourable Anayo Okpalaeke, alongside other committee members, described the oxygen reticulation project as a critical life-saving initiative.
According to them, the project would significantly enhance emergency response capacity and improve patient survival rates, particularly in critical care situations.
Chizoba is from the ministry of information
