When it comes to health policy cancer care, Nigerian nurses should be saddled with more responsibilities.
This is the stance of the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako.
A the opening ceremony of the first National Scientific Conference of the Oncology Nurses Association of Nigeria (ONAN) in Abuja, the minister said nurses are playing important roles across the healthcare system and should be more involved.
The conference ran under the theme: “Advancing Excellence in Oncology Nursing Practice Across the Cancer Care Continuum.”
Salako who was represented by Dr Uchechukwu Nwokwu, the National Coordinator, National Cancer Control and Nuclear Medicine Programme, said cancer was complex and required coordinated efforts by different health professionals.
“The policy space is for every one of us. It is not owned by the Minister of Health.
“Nurses should be part and parcel of the policy development and implementation process,” he said.
Salako said nurses were present across primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare levels and had important roles in cancer care.
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“In cancer care, they have a very important role to play.
“Particularly at the primary healthcare level, in early detection, screening and prompt diagnosis.”
The minister said cancer’s complexity made multidisciplinary collaboration essential to effective treatment and patient care.
He assured oncology nurses of the ministry’s commitment to strengthening their skills and ensuring their rightful place within the health system.
“We are open to ensuring that nurses get their rightful place in terms of skills, in terms of position.
“Also in terms of the relationship with other professionals within the health system.”
