Dr. Adedoyin Ogunyemi, Public Health Physician and Senior Lecturer at the University of Lagos, Urges Expanded Health Insurance for Seniors

Dr. Adedoyin Ogunyemi, a public health physician and senior lecturer at the University of Lagos, has called for broader health insurance coverage for older adults in Lagos State. His remarks came during the inauguration of the new age-friendly clinic at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Oregun, Ikeja, on Thursday.

The clinic, a collaborative effort between the Lagos State Government and Northwestern University’s Institute for Global Health, USA, is supported by funding from Robert J. Harvey. The project, which has been in development for two years, aims to address the specific healthcare needs of the state’s older population, which constitutes 11 percent of Lagos' residents.

Dr. Ogunyemi highlighted the challenges faced by older adults, who frequently suffer from chronic conditions that are more prevalent in this age group. He noted that many of these conditions require ongoing management rather than cure, underscoring the importance of accessible and comprehensive health coverage.

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“The launch of this age-friendly clinic at Oregun PHC marks a significant step in addressing the unique health needs of older adults,” Ogunyemi said. “We have identified gaps in the current Primary Health Centres, which are often not equipped to handle the special needs of elderly patients.”

The physician stressed the need for an expanded health insurance scheme that covers a wider range of chronic conditions, including hypertension and diabetes medications. Currently, insurance coverage for older adults is limited to those who are state indigenes or financially vulnerable, but Ogunyemi believes this should be extended to a larger segment of the elderly population.

He also emphasized the role of NGOs in supporting these initiatives, noting that while current funding has facilitated progress, additional contributions are needed to expand services beyond the existing facility.

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“Our research has shown that existing PHCs lack essential features like access ramps, spacious reception areas, and prioritization in consultations for older adults,” Ogunyemi said. “Furthermore, training for healthcare providers in elderly care is minimal.”

Dr. Ogunyemi's team assessed 15 PHCs and found that many facilities, while having some infrastructure, are not specifically designed for the needs of older adults. Feedback from older individuals highlighted issues with both physical and financial access to healthcare services.

The launch event included a stakeholders’ engagement led by the Permanent Secretary of Health District VI and other officials from Oregun PHC. Dr. Ogunyemi and his colleagues are hopeful that the new clinic will serve as a model for future expansions and improvements in healthcare for the elderly across Lagos State.