Daily Gist & Guide

  The Nigerian Senate has proposed a six-month jail term or a fine of up to ₦300,000 for hospitals and healthcare providers who fail to provide emergency medical treatment to patients. The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen emergency healthcare services in Nigeria and prevent situations where patients are denied urgent medical attention because of financial demands, administrative procedures or other avoidable delays. The bill, sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, representing Katsina Central Senatorial District, seeks to amend the National Health Act of 2014. According to reports, the proposed amendment has passed its second reading in the Senate and is expected to undergo further legislative consideration. What the Proposed Bill Seeks to Achieve Under the proposed provisions, hospitals and healthcare facilities would be required to assess emergency patients within 15 minutes of arrival. Initial stabilisation would also be expected to begin within 30 minutes, while neces...