ASPHCDA to boost service delivery through integrated healthcare approach
By Mohd Ismail
In a strategic move to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and expand outreach, the Adamawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) has introduced an operational shift known as “Integrated Services.”
The initiative is designed to provide a combination of essential health interventions such as immunization, deworming, and nutrition services simultaneously at the point of delivery.
Related news
NAN MD condemns encroachment on Agency’s property in Adamawa
EU-SARAH: Adamawa Govt lauded for major Investment in healthcare
Emirs, chiefs vow to ensure zero out-of-school syndrome in Adamawa
The innovation was unveiled during a media engagement held at the agency’s headquarters in Yola. Dr. Jacob Vasumu, Director of Disease Control and Immunization, explained that the new strategy aims to streamline healthcare operations and reach more people, especially those in hard-to-reach areas.
He noted that with the approach, communities can access multiple services during a single visit adding that it reduces operational costs, saves time, and enhances coverage, especially in rural and nomadic settings.
He noted that the agency is also implementing “In-Between Rounds Campaigns” to reach those who were missed during the main campaigns especially mobile populations and conflict-affected communities and nomadic populations.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Nuhzat Rafique, Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Bauchi, emphasized the need for a holistic and multi-sectoral approach to improve child and maternal health in Adamawa State.
She underscored the importance of early and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, coupled with proper nutrition, clean water, sanitation, and access to healthcare services.
She noted that many children in Adamawa suffer from chronic malnutrition, which hinders their growth and long-term development.
She also raised alarm over the growing threat of climate change, linking it to rising health challenges and emphasizing the need for better environmental care.
Dr. Sulaiman Saidu Bashir, Executive Chairman of ASPHCDA, highlighted the significant progress made by the agency through collaboration with the state government, media, and development partners including improved immunization rates, expanded family planning services, maternal and child healthcare, and community engagement.
Dr. Bashir applauded the support of journalists in shaping public opinion and promoting behavioral change. “The media remains a crucial ally in our mission to improve public health in Adamawa. Their role in awareness creation and community mobilization has been instrumental in our success so far,” he noted.
However, he acknowledged lingering challenges, particularly low health-seeking behavior and the spread of misinformation in some communities. To address this, Dr. Bashir stressed the need for consistent and accurate messaging through the media to counteract myths and encourage health-promoting behaviors.
Touching on the recent flood disaster that struck parts of Yola South, Dr. Bashir confirmed that all primary healthcare facilities in the affected areas remained functional. He revealed that health workers were immediately dispatched to temporary camps to provide emergency services, including immunization, antenatal care, and treatment for common ailments.
“We must ensure that disease outbreaks do not follow this disaster. I urge the media to continue sharing life-saving messages on hygiene, sanitation, and disease prevention,” he said.
On the pressing issue of malnutrition, Dr. Bashir described the situation as dire, particularly in high-risk areas adding that nutrition must be made a high priority in Adamawa State.
He disclosed that ASPHCDA, in partnership with the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF), is working to procure Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), but noted that supply remains limited compared to demand. He called for increased investment in nutrition interventions and expanded media collaboration to raise awareness.
As part of the commemoration of World Hepatitis Day 2025, themed “Let’s Break it Down, Let’s Take Action,” the PHC boss called for renewed efforts to demystify hepatitis, combat stigma, and promote early testing and treatment.
He appealed to media professionals to help amplify messages on prevention and care, saying, “Together, we can break the silence and build healthier communities.”
