Dr Umeakuewulu
By Kenechukwu Ofomah, Awka
The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Maureen Umeakuewulu, has unveiled a comprehensive plan to reposition the hospital as a regional trauma care hub in Southeast Nigeria.
Speaking during a media interaction in Awka, Umeakuewulu said the ongoing construction of a world-class trauma centre by the Anambra State Government would significantly improve emergency response and specialized care for trauma patients across the region.
She commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for prioritizing healthcare, noting that the project would address a long-standing gap in trauma care within the state.
According to her, the hospital’s transformation will focus on improved service delivery, staff training, and enhanced research capacity.
She revealed plans to digitize hospital operations to eliminate manual processes, reduce delays, and curb revenue leakages.
Umeakuewulu also outlined plans to establish key medical units, including a cancer centre, as well as strengthen orthopaedic and radiology services. She added that efforts are underway to secure full accreditation for residency training across departments.
To boost capacity, the CMD said the hospital would partner with local and international institutions for knowledge exchange, while expanding telemedicine services to reach patients in remote areas.
She further disclosed plans to attract funding through grants, partnerships, and an endowment fund, calling on well-meaning individuals and philanthropists to support the hospital’s growth.
In addition, the hospital will strengthen its satellite facilities and referral system to improve access to care at the grassroots, particularly in tackling maternal mortality.
Umeakuewulu expressed optimism that with sustained government support and stakeholder collaboration, COOUTH would soon emerge as a centre of excellence in healthcare delivery.
Tags: COOUTH, Anambra health sector, Maureen Umeakuewulu, trauma centre, Chukwuma Soludo, Nigeria healthcare, medical research, hospital reforms
