Nigeria is experiencing a surge in reverse medical tourism, with patients from the United States and other countries flocking to the country for kidney transplants. According to Vice President Kashim Shettima, this trend is driven by the affordability and high-quality medical expertise offered by Nigerian hospitals.
Shettima cited the example of 13 patients from the United States who recently underwent kidney transplants at Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre in Nigeria. He praised the hospital's Chief Medical Director, Dr. Olalekan Olatise, for his contributions to kidney care, describing him as "a very decent man who is highly altruistic" in his commitment to medical excellence.
However, Shettima acknowledged the financial burden on patients, many of whom struggle to afford transplants and post-transplant care. He highlighted the need for sustainable healthcare financing models to support patients.
The Vice President also reflected on his tenure as Governor of Borno State, where he championed healthcare initiatives, including a free maternal care programme. He noted that the programme had recorded over 4,000 deliveries in less than eight months, with all medical expenses covered.
This development is a significant boost to Nigeria's healthcare sector, which has been working to improve its reputation and attract international patients. As the country continues to invest in its healthcare infrastructure, it is likely that reverse medical tourism will become an increasingly important contributor to the national economy.
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