The role of the family physician in the fight against Coronavirus disease 2019 in Nigeria

• DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v12i1.2492
• Publication Date: 2020-06-18T14:51:45Z
• Authors: Tijani I.A. Oseni; Ramatu O. Agbede; Bolatito B. Fatusin; Michael A. Odewale
• Keywords: Pandemic

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been ravaging Nigeria and the world with increasing morbidity mortality. Despite efforts by Nigerian government implemented through Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to reduce scourge of public enlightenment regular updates, number new cases mortalities from COVID-19 are still increasing. Family physicians (FPs) who first contact care most patients accessing private health facilities in have working tirelessly Nigeria. They continuously update themselves webinars online resources guidelines provided Society Physicians (SOFPON). Measures adopted FPs across country fight against include triaging as they present family medicine clinics; education populace; ensuring social distancing, handwashing compulsory use face mask both during clinical consultations. Other measures incorporating family-focused behavioural interventions their practice, home-based persons visiting hospital, telemedicine Hospice palliative services elderly terminally ill. In conclusion, helping patient innovative healthcare delivery that does not put at increased risk whilst promptly recognising potential referring them early diagnosis treatment.