Volunteerism in a Health Care Delivery System in Nigeria: A Cottage Hospital Experience

Abstract

Introduction: The need for volunteerism in the implementation of National Programmes is becoming more obvious now than before, especially in resource poor countries. The activities of volunteers are required in all aspects of life, especially in the developed countries, and they cut across age groups, gender, occupation and geographical barriers. Unfortunately there is paucity of information on the activities and constraints of volunteers in developing countries.

Aim: To evaluate the contribution of volunteer staff involved in implementing the Community Health Insurance Scheme of a cottage hospital in Southern Nigeria.

Method: The study design involved a descriptive analysis of all volunteering activities at Obio Cottage Hospital in Port Harcourt, Rivers State South-south Nigeria, from January 1, 2011 till December 31, 2011. Primary and secondary sources of data were used.

Results: The total number of applicants who wished to volunteer during the period was 131, thirty-four of these were selected as 'Participants' in the programme. Women were more likely to volunteer than men, and highly educated Nigerians, including medical doctors and degree holders participated. Obio Cottage Hospital benefitted from the scheme in financial terms to the tune of more than 4 million Naira. (about 27 thousand US Dollars) within the one year of study while the participants all agreed that the scheme assisted them in actualizing their career and positioned them to getting paid jobs. The clinical output of the hospital more than doubled during the period.

Conclusion: Organized volunteerism is of great benefit to the participants, institution, community and country and should be encouraged.