Healthcare professionals, stakeholders, and nursing mothers in Bayelsa State are praising the effectiveness of drone services implemented by the state government regarding the distribution of drugs and other medical supplies to hospitals throughout the region.
During separate interviews with journalists who visited several health facilities in Yenagoa and Ogbia local government areas, these groups expressed their support for the initiative.
In a collaboration established in 2022, the state government partnered with logistics delivery firm Zipline to enhance the storage of vital cold-chain medications and broaden the reach of essential medical supplies to remote healthcare facilities in the state.
Reports indicate that this endeavor has facilitated over 13,500 deliveries of medical provisions and 537,000 doses of vaccines to 210 health centers across Bayelsa.
The Head of Clinical Services at Kolo General Hospital in Ogbia Local Government Area, Dr. Opukumo Alexandra, hailed the drone services as an innovative approach aimed at enhancing responses to the healthcare needs of rural residents.
Dr. Alexandra stated, “The utilization of drones represents a significant technological advancement. Whenever a particular item is unavailable, instead of searching in vain, Zipline can promptly deliver the required consumables upon a simple phone call.”
“Zipline’s services have been invaluable. They exhibit rapid responsiveness to our requests,” Dr. Alexandra added.
Ase Adiogbogbo, the medical officer in charge of Otuokpoti Primary Health Centre in Ogbia Local Government Area, and Dr. Agabugene Timineri, the Immunization Officer at Agudama-Ekpetiama Health Centre in Yenagoa Local Government Area, emphasized that the implementation of this technological innovation has bolstered the state’s healthcare system by reducing the delivery time of medications and medical supplies, which were previously transported mainly by road or waterways.
They highlighted how receiving drugs and medical supplies via drones has enhanced service efficiency, allowing for prompt care, especially during emergencies.
Adiogbogbo remarked, “Considering immunization, particularly in a rural healthcare setting, we mostly cater to nursing mothers. Our healthcare delivery has significantly improved. Previously, delays in vaccine deliveries resulted in stock shortages. Now, drug scarcity is no longer an issue.”
One nursing mother at Otuokpoti Primary Health Centre, Elizabeth Akpo, shared her experience, noting that prior to the introduction of drone services, her children faced challenges with immunization due to drug unavailability caused by difficulties in accessibility.
She expressed, “The scenario has drastically changed. Now, my child receives vaccinations as scheduled. Whenever I visit, I receive immediate attention and the necessary injections. No more excuses.”
Elizabeth added, “I am extremely satisfied with the recent healthcare services provided. The immunization process is excellent and has significantly improved my child’s health. I rarely encounter minor illnesses like malaria, diarrhea, or measles. The vaccine deliveries from Yenagoa via drones have made us very content.”