The Association of Rural Surgical Practitioners of Nigeria (ARSPON) has demonstrated its commitment to providing healthcare access to underserved communities by offering free hernia and lump surgeries for rural patients in Ibadan, Oyo state during its 16th Annual General Meeting.
Themed ‘Safety & Quality Assurance in Rural Surgical Practice,’ the conference commenced with a two-day surgical outreach at the LAD Medical Centre in Ibadan, held from Thursday, February 15th to Friday, February 16th, 2024, providing complimentary surgeries to both elderly and young patients in need. Over 30 doctors volunteered their expertise to perform surgeries on indigent individuals.
While speaking at a press conference, Associate Professor Oyebola Adekola, the National President of ARSPON, reiterated the organization’s enduring dedication to community service.
She said: “We annually conduct over 5,000 surgeries free of charge, ensuring standard surgical and anesthesia care, thus contributing significantly to our communities and Nigeria at large.”
She also highlighted ARSPON’s impressive track record, stating, “With a track record of conducting over 30,000 surgeries in the past five years, ARSPON aims to double its impact in the next five years, potentially reaching 60,000 to 100,000 patients, depending on available resources.”
She emphasized the organization’s commitment to mentoring practitioners and monitoring members to uphold quality standards and eradicate quackery within the profession.
Dr. Olayide Majeed Oladipupo, the Local Chairman, oversaw the surgeries at LAD Medical Centre, expressing gratitude for the successful completion of 24 surgeries on the first day.
“We are providing surgeries for adults and children across various categories, all free of charge, with beneficiaries required to be indigenes,” Dr. Oladipupo commented.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the NOC, Dr. Lanre Shoyinka, highlighted the financial support behind ARSPON’s initiatives.
He explained, “Our finances primarily come from our members and goodwill gestures from Nigerians. We seek additional support from the government at all levels, with some state governments partnering with us by providing accommodation and other forms of assistance.”
Beneficiaries of ARSPON’s free surgeries also shared their gratitude for the organization’s support.
One beneficiary, Mrs. Adeola, expressed her appreciation, saying, “I am thankful to ARSPON for providing me with the opportunity to undergo surgery without worrying about the financial burden. Their generosity has truly changed my life.”
Another beneficiary, Mr. Ibrahim, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “As a rural resident with limited access to healthcare, I am incredibly grateful to ARSPON for offering free surgeries. They have restored my health and given me hope for the future.”
Notable attendees at the press conference included Dr. Oseh Ejovy, National PRO; Dr. Gafar Amoo, National Secretary; Dr. Lanre Shoyinka, Chairman, NOC; Dr. Gbenga Sikiru Ogunsina, Chairman, Oyo Chapter; and Dr. Theophilus Ojebode, Chairman of the Education Research and Training Committee of ARSPON.
The event is set to feature a lecture on the theme by Keynote Speaker Dr. Adewumi O. Durodola, a Consultant Family Physician at Bowen University Teaching Hospital in Ogbomoso.
