By: Liz Kah
The Bauchi State Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has announced plans to introduce a biometric attendance system across health facilities in the state as part of efforts to improve service delivery and curb absenteeism among health workers.
The State Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Sani Mohammed Dambam, disclosed this when members of the Advocacy for the Implementation of Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Innovations in Nigeria visited him to present feedback from communities on challenges encountered while seeking healthcare services.
Dr. Dambam explained that the biometric system would enable the ministry to effectively monitor the presence and activities of health workers while on duty, thereby addressing the persistent issue of absenteeism. He noted that patients often experience long waiting times at health facilities due to the late arrival or absence of healthcare personnel.
According to him, the initiative is part of broader efforts by the ministry to reduce delays in accessing healthcare services, particularly for pregnant women during labour and childbirth.
The commissioner, however, pointed out that some delays such as delays in seeking care and reaching health facilities are beyond the control of healthcare providers. He urged caregivers to take responsibility for their health by planning ahead, emphasizing that government alone cannot address all healthcare challenges.
Dr. Dambam further stated that the state government has continued to prioritize the health sector, with special emphasis on maternal, newborn, child health, and nutrition. As part of this commitment, he revealed that a special welfare package has been approved for health workers in the state to boost morale, attract more professionals into the sector, and address the existing manpower gap.
Earlier, the leader of the Advocacy Champions, Shamsiyya Bala Aliyu, highlighted key concerns raised by communities and traditional leaders during recent engagements. She listed these to include inadequate skilled health workers, delays in referrals, and the attitude of some healthcare personnel.
She noted that the advocacy group is seeking collaboration with the ministry to intensify awareness on postpartum hemorrhage and to encourage pregnant women to register early for antenatal care, deliver in health facilities, and attend postnatal services.
Aliyu explained that the champions are working to engage policymakers and healthcare professionals to prioritize and integrate MNCH innovations into the healthcare system.
She added that the project is being implemented by the AIM-MNCH Consortium, which includes Pathfinder International Nigeria, the Africa Centre of Excellence for Population Health and Policy (ACEPHAP), the Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI), and the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN).
Presentation to the Commissioner
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