PENGASSAN Foundation Invests N12 Million in Medical Assistance for Vulnerable Patients
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has taken a significant step towards improving healthcare access for underprivileged individuals in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Through its foundation, PENGASSAN has allocated N12 million to cover medical expenses for indigent patients at four general hospitals. These include Karshi, Bwari, Gwagwalada, and Gwarimpa General Hospitals.
Each of these institutions received financial support from the foundation. Specifically, N3 million was disbursed to Karshi and Bwari General Hospitals to address the medical bills of patients who could not afford treatment. Meanwhile, N6 million was allocated to Gwagwalada and Gwarimpa General Hospitals, ensuring that those in need receive adequate care.
At Karshi General Hospital, the foundation conducted an on-the-spot assessment of patients unable to pay for their medical services. This initiative allowed the foundation to directly settle outstanding bills, enabling proper treatment and discharge for those in need.
Dr. Sanni Wilfred, the Medical Director of Karshi General Hospital, highlighted the challenges faced by the hospital, which serves a large number of vulnerable women and children. He noted that over 60% of the hospital’s patients come from low-income backgrounds, with some facing exorbitant medical costs. For instance, one child required cardiac surgery estimated at N10 million.
Wilfred emphasized that the hospital provides emergency care around the clock without charging patients upfront. In many cases, patients are discharged even if they cannot afford to pay, as the hospital strives to ensure that no one is denied essential treatment due to financial constraints. He expressed hope that such collaborations would continue to support the community.
During a visit to the hospital, Dr. Wilfred guided members of the PENGASSAN Foundation through the wards and different departments. He reiterated that most of the patients are from rural areas, including pregnant women and children. He encouraged other NGOs and foundations to follow the example set by PENGASSAN, highlighting the importance of extending aid beyond the association’s members.
At Bwari General Hospital, the foundation also assessed and settled the medical bills of several indigent patients. This effort aligns with the broader mission of the PENGASSAN Foundation, which focuses on hospitals serving the underprivileged rather than those catering to wealthier individuals.
Comrade Fesus Osifo, the president of PENGASSAN, was represented by the Foundation Chairman, Comrade David Owan. Owan explained that the foundation was established by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the association to provide tangible assistance to those in need. He emphasized that the foundation aims to alleviate the financial burden of healthcare for vulnerable populations in Abuja’s general hospitals.
Owan, who also serves as the national treasurer, stated that the foundation’s mission goes beyond supporting PENGASSAN members. It seeks to extend welfare to the broader community. During the visit, the foundation conducted an on-site assessment to identify individuals struggling with medical costs and provided financial assistance accordingly.
The foundation has a budget of about N3 million for this initiative and plans to visit other hospitals in the future. Owan stressed that the foundation does not target larger or more affluent hospitals but instead focuses on those where the need is greatest.
The PENGASSAN Foundation was created by the association’s NEC to assist indigent individuals with their medical expenses and to expand welfare efforts beyond the association’s members. The staff at both hospitals visited expressed gratitude for the support and encouraged other NGOs to follow suit.
This initiative reflects a growing commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their economic status, have access to essential medical services.
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