Kaduna Set to Domesticate National Self-Care Guidelines
The Kaduna State Government is gearing up to domesticate the National Self-Care Guidelines to improve Universal Health Coverage, particularly in sexual reproductive and maternal health. Dr. Abubakar Sadiq Idris, Director of Public Health, emphasized that this policy will enhance individual and community health by raising awareness and encouraging proactive health-seeking behavior. This move aims to address adolescent and maternal reproductive health challenges, reduce maternal mortality, and ease the burden on health services. Kaduna follows Lagos as the second state to adopt this approach, aiming to make healthcare more accessible and empowering residents to take control of their well-being.
Joy Aungwa from the Federal Ministry of Health noted that self-care will reduce barriers to sexual reproductive health services. Organizations like the Society for Family Health have partnered with Kaduna to implement these guidelines, which empower women to manage their own health needs, such as through self-injectable contraceptives. This initiative is expected to improve health awareness, reduce the pressure on healthcare systems, and provide better access to essential services across the state.