New Health Centre Opens in Lagos Community, Promising Better Access to Medical Care By Sodiq Ojuroungbe

The African Community Development Project in partnership with Locum Care has launched a new outreach programme aimed at bringing affordable and free healthcare services to Lagos residents amid the increasing economic hardship.

Speaking during the unveiling of a health centre in the Alagbado area of Ifako-Ijaye Local Government recently, the ACDP Community Engagement Coordinator, Sodiq Aderinoye, said the initiative was to tackle financial barriers that prevent many Nigerians from accessing medical care by providing high-quality healthcare services to vulnerable people, especially the elderly, expectant mothers, and young children.

Aderinoye said the new health centre would provide a variety of medical services, including free consultations, laboratory tests, and medications.

He stated that ACDP has introduced telemedicine services, allowing patients to consult with doctors online.

This, he noted, would eliminate the need for in-person visits, making healthcare more accessible and reducing the risk of delays in receiving medical attention.

The ACDP coordinator added that the new centre will provide healthcare services to 150 to 200 patients daily, particularly those struggling to access care due to financial constraints.

According to him, the project is driven by a passion for humanitarian service, ensuring that regardless of background, everyone has access to good healthcare facilities.

“The launch of the healthcare centre is a welcome development for Lagos residents, who have been struggling to access affordable healthcare services. With the rising cost of living and dwindling economic fortunes, many residents have been forced to abandon medical treatment due to financial constraints.

“We are committed to providing subsidised healthcare services, including telemedicine, to make quality healthcare accessible to all, especially those who cannot afford it.

“We know that distance can be a major barrier, especially for people who are already struggling financially. Telemedicine will allow people to talk to a doctor directly from their phone or computer, reducing the need for travel and making healthcare more accessible,” he stated.

Also speaking, the team lead of Locum Care, Aderinoye Adetunji said the ACDP’s healthcare centre is designed to serve as an affordable alternative to expensive private clinics, offering a range of services, from general checkups to specialised care for the elderly.

He said the healthcare centre’s operations will be monitored closely, with evaluations conducted regularly to assess its impact and identify areas for improvement.

He further said, “We are planning to see 150 to 200 patients today, but we have already surpassed that number. People are happy and even volunteering to support our work.

“Many people in this area cannot afford hospital fees, and that’s why we’re here today. Our services, particularly for people with chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes, are entirely free. This is our way of supporting the community and bringing healthcare closer to their doorstep.

“By offering free medications to those with chronic illnesses, we hope to make a real difference in the lives of those who can’t afford the high costs of private healthcare.”

Reacting, the chairperson of the Ifedayo Community Development Association, Mrs. Idayat Ajasa praised the initiative, noting that it would greatly benefit the community.

“This kind of healthcare is exactly what our people need. With the high cost of even basic medications, this outreach is a big opportunity for our community.

“We have been working with ACDP for months now, and I can see the positive impact they are having. People are already receiving treatment, and I believe this will continue to benefit our residents for a long time,’” she noted.

SOURCE: Punch Healthwise