The Guild of Medical Directors (GMD) has raised concerns over the financial challenges crippling Nigeria’s private healthcare sector, revealing that over half of the country’s private hospitals have shut down, while those still operating are struggling to survive.

Dr. Raymond Kuti, President of the GMD, disclosed in an interview that monthly closures of private hospitals are accelerating due to escalating costs of essentials like electricity and medical supplies, pushing many to the brink.

“On average, three out of six private hospitals are shutting down monthly,” Dr. Kuti stated, noting that operational costs for energy and imported medical supplies have increased by as much as 500%.

This economic strain has hit Band A hospitals particularly hard. He also cited a decline in patient patronage and the “japa” trend, which has led to severe staffing shortages as young healthcare professionals leave Nigeria in search of better opportunities abroad.

The cost barrier has forced many Nigerians to delay necessary medical treatment, with some resorting to self-medication or local remedies due to financial constraints.

Dr. Kuti, who also serves as the Chief Medical Director at Prisms Health Care Limited, urged the government to intervene and support private healthcare facilities, emphasizing their critical role in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

“We need the government to recognise the challenges we face and provide the necessary support to ensure that private hospitals can continue to operate and serve the community,” he said.