Lagos program saves lives through emergency medical aid
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In Lagos, Nigeria, the Lagos State Health Management Agency Assistance-In-Distress program, LASHMA-AID, helped save 110 lives and responded to 132 emergency cases in its first six months.
Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, shared this information at a meeting with partner organizations. While the program successfully aided many, 22 people died from the severity of their injuries.
The program provided medical coverage for 23 people enrolled in ILERA EKO, three enrolled in Eko Social Health Alliance, and 106 vulnerable residents who could not otherwise afford care. LASHMA-AID also arranged health insurance for these vulnerable residents and their families. Emergency pickups occurred most frequently in Ikeja, Badagry, Ogba, and Lagos Island. The Lagos State Ambulance Service Agency handled 76 of the emergency transports, with support from four private ambulance operators and citizens who reported cases.
Zamba believes increased awareness and the growing number of cases will lead to even more lives saved, but she also noted the large number of patients who lack the means to pay for healthcare.
