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

Lagos State's public hospitals have witnessed a surge in patient visits, with outpatient attendance doubling in the past six months, according to the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi. Speaking to ARISE NEWS, Abayomi highlighted that the surge in patients has put immense pressure on healthcare workers, who are already grappling with a shortage caused partly by the brain drain of medical professionals.

He noted that doctors and other healthcare professionals are working under immense strain, often working from 6am to the next 6am, which is an exhausting prospect. The Commissioner attributed the surge in patient numbers partly to the rising cost of healthcare, which is causing residents to shift from private hospitals to public facilities and even to informal healthcare providers.

Despite the increase in patient numbers, Abayomi said the government was taking steps to address the issue. He announced that the state would soon enforce compulsory health insurance, similar to how one needs a driver's license, MOT, and insurance for their car. This move is aimed at improving healthcare financing and reducing pressure on government-funded facilities.

Abayomi also expressed concerns over the brain drain of healthcare workers, stating that improving demand-side financing would help retain and attract health professionals, thereby reducing brain drain.