Neurologist Calls For ADHD Inclusion in NHIA Scheme

Dr Oluwasola Oke, a Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, has called for the inclusion of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

Speaking in an interview on Tuesday in Ilorin, Dr Oke, of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, highlighted the astronomical cost of managing the condition.

According to him, a sachet of 10 tablets costs N50,000, making it unaffordable for many patients.

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He further noted that, in addition to the high cost, the medication is scarce and only available in Lagos or outside the country.

Dr Oke suggested that the government could subsidise the drugs for patients through the NHIA.

He described ADHD as one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, characterised by inattention among children.

“This inattention includes having a short attention span, difficulty keeping on task or staying organised, hyperactivity, restlessness or talking excessively.”

According to him, Nigeria bears the burden of ADHD in children at approximately 4.6 to 8.7 per cent, while Africa stands at 5.4 to 8.7 per cent, and globally, the figure is between 5 and 10 per cent.

The expert, who also teaches at the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, OAU, pointed out that many people misunderstand the disorder, assuming affected children are mentally unstable, stubborn, or difficult.

“ADHD behaviour frequently occurs across multiple situations such as school, home and at work,” he said.

The neurologist cautioned against labelling children with ADHD as stubborn, spoilt, difficult, or abnormal.

He explained that some people erroneously believe the children lack home training or are spiritually attacked, emphasising that the condition is neither a curse nor a spiritual punishment.

Dr Oke warned that “beating such a child or taking them for endless deliverance will not cast it out; instead of blaming spirits, the affected child needs to see a specialist.”

He added that children with ADHD require the right learning methods, a supportive environment, and patience, noting that “some of them can be intelligent and excel in music, art or mathematics.”

Dr Oke also urged against stigmatising these children and encouraged people to bring their wards to specialists who can manage the condition through behavioural therapy and medication.

He appealed to the public to show love and understanding to the children, who, he said, can be managed to lead productive lives.

Dr Oke further called on the government and caregivers to address the challenges in procuring drugs and managing children with such disorders.

NAN