Lagos public hospitals now seeing ‘thousands of patients’ daily — Commissioner

Lagos State's public hospitals are experiencing a surge in patient numbers, with outpatient attendance doubling in the past six months, according to Health Commissioner Prof. Akin Abayomi. The influx is attributed to a shortage of healthcare workers, partly due to brain drain. Public hospitals, including Lasuthi, Korodu, and Lagos Island facilities, are now treating thousands of patients daily, far exceeding private hospital capacities.

Abayomi attributes this to the rising cost of healthcare, which is pushing residents away from private facilities. To address the strain on public hospitals, the state plans to enforce compulsory health insurance, making it mandatory for residents living and working in Lagos. The government is also restructuring the health insurance system and increasing public awareness about the scheme.

Abayomi believes that stronger demand-side financing through insurance will help improve healthcare financing, reduce pressure on government-funded facilities, and slow down brain drain among healthcare professionals.