Nigeria is witnessing a surge in reverse medical tourism, in a striking shift in global medical trends, with patients from the United States and other countries opting for affordable and high-quality kidney transplants within its borders.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made this claim on Thursday while receiving members of the Nigerian Association of Nephrology (NAN) at the Presidential Villa, ahead of the association’s 37th Scientific Conference.
He attributed the increasing preference for Nigeria’s medical services to the expertise and cost-effectiveness of treatments available in the country.
According to VP Shettima, Nigerian hospitals like Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre have become a sought-after destination for kidney transplants, attracting international patients who find the same level of expertise offered in the West at a fraction of the cost.
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“There is reverse medical tourism these days because of the level of care at some of our hospitals. Recently, thirteen patients from the United States came to Nigeria for kidney transplants at Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre because it is much cheaper here, and they receive the same level of expertise available anywhere in the world,” he stated.
The Vice President commended Dr. Olalekan Olatise, Chief Medical Director of the centre, for his contributions to nephrology and kidney care, describing him as “a very decent man who is highly altruistic in his efforts to assist humanity.”
While celebrating the success of kidney transplants in Nigeria, VP Shettima also acknowledged the financial burden faced by many patients, who often sell their homes or depend on government aid to afford treatment.