The Lagos State Government in collaboration with Alimosho General Hospital, Igando, has taken free health screening, medical consultations and preventive healthcare services to traders at Ikotun Market.
The outreach recorded an impressive turnout of market men and women, providing an opportunity for traders who may often lack the time or resources to visit healthcare facilities to access professional medical care within their business environment.
Speaking at the event, the Medical Director/Chief Executive Officer of Alimosho General Hospital, Dr Akinyele Akinlade, explained that the outreach was deliberately organised to meet people where they are, stressing that good healthcare goes beyond treating illnesses after symptoms have become apparent.
Dr Akinlade noted that some people live with health conditions without being aware of them because the conditions may not initially produce noticeable symptoms. He therefore emphasised the importance of regular health checks, early detection and healthy lifestyle choices.
Revealing that plans are underway for the establishment of a new clinic that would provide more convenient and premium healthcare services for individuals who can afford them, the Medical Director urged the market men and women to make their health a priority, noting that early detection of health conditions facilitates timely treatment and helps prevent complications.
The Chairman, Friends of Alimosho General Hospital, Dr. Rukayat Ajibola-Bakare, said the initiative was designed to extend healthcare support to members of the community who may face financial constraints in accessing regular medical care.
She dispelled the misconception that medical check-ups are only necessary for educated people or those who are sick, emphasising that “healthcare is for everyone”.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman and Supervisor for Health, Igando-Ikotun LCDA, Hon. Prince Adewunmi Dada, commended the Lagos State Government and the hospital management for the initiative. He also appreciated the traders for their impressive participation.
Hon. Dada encouraged the traders to enrol in the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme, describing it as an affordable means of accessing healthcare and urging residents not to wait until illnesses become severe before seeking medical attention.
The medical team subsequently attended to participants through various screening and consultation services, reaffirming the hospital’s commitment to taking quality healthcare closer to the people
