The Nigerian government has announced the development of a nationwide trauma care and management policy to enhance the country’s trauma care system.
This was announced on Thursday, October 17, during World Trauma Day celebrations. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, shared the news at a media conference in Abuja.
Celebrated every October 17, World Trauma Day this year focused on the theme “Workplace Injury: Prevention and Management.”
In Nigeria, common causes of trauma include road traffic accidents, violence involving guns and sharp, blunt weapons, and domestic accidents, which the healthcare system still struggles to manage.
Prof. Pate stressed that the new policy aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to improving trauma care. “This policy will cover all aspects of trauma care, from pre-hospital and emergency care to rehabilitation and reintegration into the workforce. We aim to set a gold standard for trauma management, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of location, has access to high-quality emergency care when needed,” the minister said.
Injuries from traffic accidents falls, or workplace accidents are common, with low and middle-income countries bearing the brunt.
Prof. Pate remarked, “These account for approximately 90% of global injury-related deaths, highlighting the disparities in safety measures and healthcare capabilities across different regions.
“Turning our focus to Nigeria, the situation mirrors the global challenge but is exacerbated by specific local factors such as inadequate road safety measures, limited emergency care services, and occupational hazards in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and agriculture.”
As part of the efforts to strengthen trauma care, Prof. Pate revealed that the ministry is establishing a dedicated clinic within it to offer Emergency Medical Services, including care for workplace injuries.
The new clinic would be equipped to provide immediate care and supported by ambulances specifically to handle trauma cases.
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