COVID-19: Murtala Muhammed Foundation Floats MedAssist Partner Line

The Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MFF) has launched a telecommunication medical line to assist the NCDC in its drive to reach those with the Covid-19 virus who are unable to access the designated Isolation centres across the country.

The project named, the “MMF Medassist Covid Partner Line,” is part of the effort to provide access to relevant and necessary medical information and support for those who may have been exposed to the Covid 19 virus, across the 36 states of the country.

The CEO of the Foundation, Mrs Aisha Muhammed Oyebode noted that “this initiative offers virtual healthcare delivery in circumstances fast becoming our new normal, in collaboration with the NCDC helpline. 

“This is a response to the NCDC’s request for additional call centre support during the COVID-19 pandemic, to support end-users, to prevent a health crisis. The helpline will allow callers to consult with medical professionals virtually, who will be able to prescribe necessary treatment to forestall an escalation of symptoms.”

Recently, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stated that many patients who tested positive with the Corona Virus refuse to go to the isolation centres and prefer to self-medicate/treat, with some remaining untraceable having left incorrect contact information. 

Mrs Oyebode noted that records show that about 75% of those infected refuse to present themselves for admission at Isolation Centres in Lagos State alone, “making it imperative for MMF to come up with this support.” 

The dedicated Med Assist Telemedicine Hotline – 08180640000 – is poised to launch in the 36 states of the country,” Oyebode stated.

The Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) is a non-profit organization, founded on the ideals of the Late Gen. Murtala Muhammed, a former Head of State of Nigeria (1975-76).

The Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life of Africans.

It specifically focuses on engendering self-reliance and fulfilment by working tirelessly on policy and advocacy for issues that impact on ethics, equity, good governance and economic empowerment, encouraging business development, education and providing medium term disaster relief.

It is for this reason the Foundation established a response plan to COVID-19 pandemic.