Lagos Faces Critical Shortage of Medical Doctors

Lagos State is grappling with a severe deficit in its healthcare workforce, with an estimated shortage of 30,000 medical doctors needed to adequately serve its rapidly growing population. This pressing issue was highlighted by the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, during the 2024 Clean-Air Forum in Lagos.

Healthcare Strain

Prof. Abayomi emphasized that the shortage of medical personnel is causing significant strain on the existing healthcare system. The current doctors are overwhelmed, trying to meet the demands of a burgeoning population. The situation is further exacerbated by the ongoing brain drain, which continues to deplete the state’s healthcare resources.

Impact of Air Pollution

In his address, Abayomi also highlighted the adverse effects of air pollution on public health. He called for robust inter-agency collaborations to tackle the health crisis effectively. “Lagos’ annual population growth rate of six to eight percent poses significant challenges, including in the health sector,” Abayomi noted. “Due to its daily increasing population, Lagos has a complex tuberculosis index, and the state is making substantial efforts to control its spread.”

Government Initiatives

The commissioner reassured the public that the government is committed to improving healthcare infrastructure and services. Efforts to increase the number of medical doctors and improve air quality are underway. Abayomi emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives aimed at reducing air and waterborne diseases to enhance the overall health of Lagos residents.

Addressing Bed Space Shortage

Responding to concerns about the shortage of bed spaces in state health centers, Abayomi acknowledged the public’s frustration. He assured that the government is actively working to resolve this issue, with plans to bridge the gap within the next 18 months. “We are committed to bridging the gap within the next 18 months to provide the public with the healthcare services they deserve,” he said, promising significant improvements in healthcare delivery.

The Lagos State government’s proactive measures aim to address the healthcare challenges, ensuring better services for its residents amidst rapid population growth.