The Management of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) held a training programme for members of staff on “Teamwork, Multidisciplinary Teams, Staff Welfare, and Effective Communication.” The event took place on December 3, 2024, at the hospital’s Mini Auditorium, with the aim of improving patient care and fostering a collaborative work environment.
In her welcome address, Dr Tosin Olorunmoteni, a Consultant Paediatrician, underscored the importance of members of staff working in the hospital to collaborate and work together effectively for the total well-being of the patients. She equally introduced the trainers, who were all from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, United Kingdom.
In his opening address, Prof. Akinwumi Komolafe, Deputy Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, who represented the Chief Medical Director, emphasized that the training stemmed from the Management’s commitment to prioritizing patient welfare, describing patients as the cornerstone of the hospital’s mission.
The training commenced with an introduction to its objectives by Prof. Melissa Gladstone. The first lecture, delivered by Alison Dogget, a physiotherapist, focused on “Teamwork and Setting Up Multidisciplinary Teams.” She detailed the benefits of multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) in healthcare, highlighting their potential to improve patient outcomes while addressing the challenges of establishing and managing such teams.
Jenny Corsie, in her lecture titled “Effective Communication and Quality Improvement in Healthcare,” underscored the critical role of communication in delivering patient-centered care. She emphasized that effective communication fosters collaboration among health workers and ensures a shared understanding, psychological safety, and optimal patient outcomes.
Alice Sutton, a dietician, delivered the third lecture on “Quality Improvement in Healthcare.” She identified areas for improvement in healthcare delivery and stressed the importance of effective leadership and team-based approaches. According to Sutton, quality improvement transcends individual efforts, requiring integration of diverse skills to implement sustainable changes that benefit both patients and staff.
Sarah Cooke, an occupational therapist, concluded the sessions with a lecture on “Staff Welfare and Motivation.” She highlighted the significance of staff welfare in creating a positive work environment and enhancing productivity in healthcare settings.
In his closing remarks offered at the end of the training sessions, the Chief Medical Director, Prof John Okeniyi, expressed gratitude to participants for their engagement throughout the programme. He reiterated the importance of teamwork in improving healthcare services and encouraged staff to maintain a balance between work responsibilities and personal health to ensure productivity. The training was well-received by those who attended, underscoring OAUTHC’s dedication to continuous professional development and the enhancement of healthcare delivery.
