Delta Trains 50 Doctors in Cancer Care Ahead of Osubi Specialist Hospital Launch

The Delta State Government has trained more than 50 medical doctors in cancer care, early detection and referral procedures as part of preparations for the planned introduction of specialised oncology services at the Osubi Specialist Hospital.

The one-day capacity-building programme, organised by the Department of Medical Services and Training under the state Ministry of Health, was held on Wednesday, October 14, at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat in Asaba.

The initiative is intended to strengthen the ability of frontline doctors to recognise cancer warning signs, conduct initial clinical assessments and refer suspected cases promptly to specialists for further investigation and treatment.

Speaking at the programme, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Gloria Ferife, said the training formed part of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s efforts to expand access to specialised healthcare and improve medical services across the state.

Onojaeme said the Osubi Specialist Hospital, currently under development in Okpe Local Government Area, was expected to provide advanced healthcare services, including specialised cancer treatment, reducing the need for patients to travel outside Delta State to access such care.

He explained that investment in specialised medical infrastructure must be supported by a skilled workforce and an efficient referral system to ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment without unnecessary delays.

The commissioner also disclosed that approval had been granted for the recruitment of more than 700 health workers to strengthen service delivery across the state. He added that the government had approved a tax-free MORE Specialist Allowance for doctors as part of efforts to attract and retain medical professionals.

Earlier, the Director of Medical Services and Training, Dr Uwomano Oghounu, emphasised that early detection, accurate diagnosis and timely referral were essential components of effective cancer care.

He urged the participating doctors to apply the knowledge acquired during the training, maintain comprehensive clinical records and improve communication between healthcare facilities and specialist services.

A consultant radiologist at Asaba Specialist Hospital, Dr Daniel Isoje, also commended the initiative, encouraging medical practitioners across Delta to familiarise themselves with the oncology services planned for Osubi and the procedures for referring patients.

The development comes as access to specialist cancer services remains a significant challenge for patients who must travel long distances for diagnosis and treatment, often facing additional transport, accommodation and medical expenses.

By combining professional training with investment in specialist facilities, the state government aims to strengthen early diagnosis and improve access to treatment within Delta.

However, the expected impact will depend on the timely completion and commissioning of the hospital, the availability of trained specialists and equipment, and the establishment of affordable, reliable referral and treatment services.

The government has yet to specify a confirmed opening date for the Osubi Specialist Hospital in the reports reviewed.