High Cost of Care in Nigerian Hospitals: A Barrier to Accessing Essential Healthcare
With the cost of care skyrocketing in public hospitals across Nigeria, essential healthcare is becoming increasingly unaffordable for most Nigerians. Hospitals are now demanding deposits and upfront payments before providing care, leaving many patients and caregivers stranded. The lack of health insurance for over 90% of Nigerians further exacerbates the situation.
The Guardian’s investigation revealed a significant spike in the cost of basic care in major public hospitals, ranging from 50 to 150%. Patients are forced to explore cheaper but potentially unsafe alternatives, such as herbal concoctions, due to the exorbitant fees.
At hospitals like Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), fees for services and tests have doubled or tripled, making healthcare out of reach for many. The burden of sourcing consumables and equipment falls on patients, further adding to the financial strain.
Experts and healthcare professionals are calling for urgent government intervention to address the rising cost of care and improve access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians. Without timely action, the consequences of unaffordable healthcare could be dire.