The Lagos State Government has introduced a state-of-the-art Remote Control System for Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Health District I to bolster healthcare delivery in the district as part of efforts to enhance healthcare at the primary level.
According to Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, director, Public Affairs, inaugurated by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the system is expected to improve healthcare access for residents of Lagos Health District I, particularly in underserved areas. It enhances efficiency by providing real-time monitoring of Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and facilitates remote consultations between patients and specialists.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Rauf Aregbesola Primary Health Centre in Mosan-Okunola LCDA on Friday, September 27, 2024, the First Lady, represented by the wife of the Chairman, Egbe-Idimu LCDA, Mrs. Omolola Sanyaolu, highlighted the significance of the Remote Control System. She noted its potential to improve access to quality healthcare, especially for residents in underserved and hard-to-reach areas of the state.
She emphasized that the system will enable real-time monitoring of PHCs and facilitate remote consultations with specialists, bridging the gap between primary and secondary healthcare services in Lagos.
“This is not just a technological advancement; it is a bold declaration of our commitment to ensuring that no resident is left behind in accessing quality healthcare,” Dr. (Mrs.) Sanwo-Olu stated. She commended the Permanent Secretary of Lagos Health District I, Dr. Olufunmilayo Bankole, and her team for their dedication to bringing the project to life.
She explained that the Remote Control System is expected to improve early diagnosis, facilitate efficient referrals, and ensure better management of healthcare resources. The system will allow health workers in the district to monitor and manage health conditions remotely, reducing the burden on secondary healthcare facilities by addressing minor health issues at the primary level.
“This initiative reflects our resolve to transform healthcare in Lagos. It is an essential step in reducing mortality rates and improving health outcomes across the state,” Dr. (Mrs.) Sanwo-Olu added. She urged other health districts to adopt this innovative approach, noting that it serves as a model for advancing healthcare throughout the state.
The First Lady reaffirmed the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Permanent Secretary of Lagos Health District I, Dr. Olufunmilayo Bankole, expressed pride in the district’s health initiatives over the past year. She revealed that over 5,000 individuals had been screened for non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cervical cancer, and breast cancer as part of the district’s outreach programs. She also noted that 30% of those screened had some form of health condition requiring follow-up, and the district is actively tracking these cases.
In addition, Dr. Bankole emphasized the district’s focus on child health, including the success of an immunization intensification program aimed at reducing the number of zero-dose and partially immunized children in the Alimosho area. “Through this program, 512 children were identified and immunized, ensuring their protection against preventable diseases,” she said.
Chairman of Mosan-Okunola LCDA, Princess Olabisi Adebajo, praised the Governor and First Lady’s dedication to healthcare development in the state. Adebajo added that the Remote Control System would reduce delays in patient care by ensuring timely specialist consultations and improving referral processes.
“This system will not only enhance the patient experience but also significantly reduce maternal and child mortality rates in our community,” she remarked.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye; Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Public Service Office, Mrs. Olasunkami Oyegbola; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Dr. Biodun Onayele; and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Dr. Oluwatoni Adeyemi.
The commissioning of the Remote Control System marks a significant achievement in Lagos State’s healthcare transformation agenda, aligning with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision to improve healthcare accessibility across the state.
As Lagos continues to make strides in healthcare innovation, the commissioning of the Remote Control System in Health District I stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to improving healthcare access, quality, and efficiency for all residents. This system will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for other health districts to follow, contributing to building a healthier Lagos.
