The Abia Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Center, Umuahia, has established a hematology clinic, set to commence operations in January 2025.
This new service addresses the growing number of patients with blood-related diseases, including Sickle Cell Disease, blood cancers, bleeding disorders, and anemia of unknown origin.
Speaking to our reporter, the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Chimezie Godswill Okwuonu, emphasized that this initiative is part of the Abia State Government’s commitment to delivering specialist medical services and curbing medical tourism out of the state. Under the leadership of Governor Dr. Alex Otti (OFR), the clinic will operate every Wednesday at the Amachara annex of the hospital.
“Nigeria has the highest burden of Sickle Cell Disease globally, with a prevalence of 2–3%. Out of the estimated 50 million affected worldwide, 4–6 million people are Nigerians. This underscores the urgency of establishing specialist hematology services,” Dr. Okwuonu noted.
The clinic will offer a range of services, including the treatment of Sickle Cell Disease, Leukemia, Lymphoma, Myeloma, bleeding disorders, and other blood-related conditions. Additionally, its laboratory support will provide quality-controlled and accurate blood test results. The facility boasts a team of qualified hematologists, medical personnel, and laboratory scientists to ensure top-notch care.
This development aligns with the Abia State Health Sector’s vision of accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare. Over the past year, the Abia Specialist Hospital has expanded its specialist services from just one to 15, with more on the way.
Dr. Okwuonu credited the transformation to the collaborative efforts of the hospital’s leadership, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Uche Ogbonnaya, and the unwavering support of Governor Alex Otti. “Together, we are building the Abia of our dreams,” he stated confidently.
With this initiative, the Abia Specialist Hospital continues to position itself as a hub for advanced medical care, supporting referrals from secondary health centers across the state.