Most of the health and developmental challenges in Nigeria addressed by the second Country Cooperation Strategy (2008-2013) have not changed significantly. According to WHO, 69% of the population is estimated to live below the poverty line.Treatment of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are affected by the lack of policies and funding to address the burden of the disease in the country.Patients develop severe complications due to lack of compliance and low resources and capacity in the public health system. In addition the high transportation costs and exorbitant prices in the private clinics do not allow access to the necessary treatment to reach the low income segment of the society.This project seeks to improve diabetes care in impoverished urban communities in Lagos state, Nigeria.
This project will improve access to diabetes care in impoverished communities in one of the most populated states in Nigeria. In order to reach this goal, Health Matters Incorporated (HMI) - in collaboration with the Lagos Ministry of Health - will establish two diabetes clinics in the existing primary health care centres.To ensure the success and sustainability of this project, a strong partnership will be sought by sending advocacy letters to key stakeholders including diabetes associations and religious and trade union leaders. Workshops will also be conducted to strengthen the commitment and involvement of the community.A preliminary survey will be conducted to define a baseline for establishing diabetes care and measuring the outcomes and impacts of the project.Health care professionals (HPC) from 50 primary health care centres will receive training in diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diabetes and its complications. The training will be coordinated by the Diabetes Association of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital. Mobile units will be deployed for conducting periodic awareness and screening camps in remote areas hence reaching out to larger population. In addition, systems will be set up to accurately track progress and performance, evaluate impact, and ensure accountability of the activities in the clinics.The knowledge and practices of trained professionals and the satisfaction of the patients with the service will be assessed to provide a strong evidence base with the aim of influencing policy makers and ensure sustainability of the project. The ultimate goal is to replicate and implement this model at the national level.
• 4 sensitisation workshops reaching 160 stakeholders • 150 health care personnel from 50 primary health centres trained• 2 model clinics established • 7,340 people reached with screening, counselling and diabetes care• 1,390 patients received counselling and care related to diabetic foot complications• 32,154 people screened and sensitised by the mobile units