Lagos vows action after pregnant woman dies following hospital's denial of emergency care
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
The Lagos State Government has vowed to hold accountable all parties involved in the shocking and tragic death of Mrs. Folajimi, a pregnant woman who tragically lost her life in Lakowe, Ibeju-Lekki.
Public outrage has erupted as reports suggest that the private healthcare facility she sought help from denied her emergency care due to a lack of financial deposit, leaving her and her unborn child in peril.
The Lagos State Government extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving family, reiterating its commitment to ensuring that justice is served.
“No woman should die while giving life,” said Prof. Akin Abayomi, Commissioner for Health.
In a swift response, the Lagos State Government has launched an urgent investigation into the circumstances of the death.
The Ministry of Health, working in partnership with the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), has set up a dedicated panel to probe the matter, identify breaches in medical standards, and determine the degree of negligence involved.
According to Abayomi, initial reports indicated that both a traditional birth attendant and a private hospital were involved in the incident, and interviews with key individuals are currently underway.
He said the investigation would focus on whether the medical facility and the birth attendant were properly registered with HEFAMAA, if they adhered to approved medical practices, and if emergency protocols were followed.
The government has promised to take swift action against any individuals or institutions found responsible.
Abayomi stressed the importance of all healthcare facilities, public and private, adhering strictly to HEFAMAA regulations, including routine inspections and accreditation.
“Healthcare facilities that deny emergency care to any patient, particularly in life-threatening situations, will face severe consequences,” Abayomi said.
“This serves as a stark reminder of the state’s zero-tolerance policy towards illegal medical operations and the failure to uphold medical ethics.
“The state is also ramping up its efforts to enforce the regulation of nursing homes and Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs), reinforcing the need for all healthcare services to be registered and in compliance with safety and emergency protocols.
“The government has urged the public to report any healthcare facility not properly registered or operating outside its capacity. “We are intensifying oversight to ensure healthcare establishments uphold the highest standards of care,” he stated.
Abayomi called on community leaders, religious groups, and healthcare professionals to unite in promoting better maternal and child health and to prevent future tragedies.
“We are committed to seeking justice for Mrs. Folajimi and her family,” he affirmed.
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