In a groundbreaking initiative, the Lagos State Government has announced plans to sponsor free open-heart surgeries for 30 indigent patients, offering a lifeline to those who would otherwise have no access to this crucial medical procedure.
The ambitious project, fully backed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was unveiled by the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, during a press briefing at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) on Monday. Abayomi highlighted that the cost of these surgeries N8.5 million per patient would be fully covered by the state government in a bid to provide relief to citizens who cannot afford the high costs of heart surgery, which often forces many to seek treatment abroad.
The surgeries will be carried out in three phases: April, August, and December. This program is part of the government’s broader vision to address the gap in specialized healthcare services and reduce the financial burden on patients. Abayomi explained, “We are doing this to show Nigerians that we can achieve high-quality healthcare at home. This initiative is not just about treating patients, it’s about advancing the frontiers of science and medical care in Nigeria.”
For many Nigerians, the cost of open-heart surgery can be prohibitively expensive, and many are forced to seek treatment abroad, which is not a viable option for those in financial distress. “Some heart conditions can be managed with medication, but for others, surgery is the only solution. If patients do not have access to these procedures, they risk losing their lives, and as a responsible government, we cannot allow that,” Abayomi added.
The Chief Medical Director of LASUTH, Prof. Adetokunbo Fabamwo, emphasized that only indigent patients who truly cannot afford the surgery would qualify for this life-saving procedure. Prof. Bode Falase, Head of the Cardio-Thoracic Division, further revealed that the selection process for the patients would begin in April, with a focus on ensuring that only those in critical need of the surgery would be selected.
Despite significant investments in healthcare infrastructure and the training of medical personnel, challenges remain particularly in acquiring specialized medical equipment. Prof. Falase noted, “The current cost of open-heart surgery in Nigeria is 8.5 million naira, and many people simply cannot afford it. I’ve seen firsthand the struggles patients face due to financial limitations.”
This initiative marks a significant milestone for Lagos State in its ongoing efforts to provide equitable and accessible healthcare for all, reaffirming the commitment of the state government to improve the quality of life for its residents. With this bold move, Lagos is paving the way for a future where life-saving medical treatments are not a privilege, but a right for all.
