The Lagos State Health Management Agency has partnered with the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency to inform residents about the ILERA EKO Health Insurance Scheme and the responsibilities of service providers in safeguarding consumer rights.
The agencies stated that this collaboration aims to help consumers comprehend the scheme and understand their rights.
During a media event in Ikeja, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, the Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, emphasized the agency’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that all residents, regardless of their sector, have access to quality healthcare services.
The gathering included crucial stakeholders such as healthcare providers, media personnel, and beneficiaries of the ILERA EKO scheme, all discussing the importance of affordable healthcare and consumer rights in the state.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted that the Lagos State Health Scheme law, which created LASHMA, was instrumental in establishing ILERA EKO, an innovative project aimed at making healthcare accessible to all Lagos residents.
She acknowledged LASHMA’s role in providing economical healthcare through the ILERA EKO scheme, which functions in accordance with the Lagos State Health Scheme law enacted in 2015.
Zamba stressed the necessity of protecting consumer rights and ensuring that scheme participants receive proper value for their investments.
She outlined LASHMA’s structure, comprising three key divisions: the ILERA EKO Social Health Insurance Scheme, the Regulatory arm focused on compliance among residents, and the EKO Social Health Alliances, which aims to enroll underserved residents in the health insurance program.
“These divisions, along with the agency’s dedicated Customer Service and Quality Units, are committed to delivering high-quality services and protecting consumer rights,” she stated.
The Permanent Secretary also took the opportunity to unveil the upgraded ILERA EKO Standard Jaara plan, which was launched by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in July 2024.
“This updated plan provides additional benefits such as annual wellness screenings, telemedicine options, and specialized treatments such as cataract surgery and cancer care,” she explained.
Zamba encouraged all residents to enroll in the ILERA EKO scheme, which now includes over 857 healthcare providers throughout Lagos State, providing a broad selection of hospitals and healthcare facilities regardless of their location.
In his remarks, Mr. Afolabi Solebo, the General Manager of LASCOPA, reaffirmed his agency’s commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring that healthcare providers under the ILERA EKO scheme offer quality services.
While praising the LASHMA initiative, Solebo noted that the health of Lagos residents is vital for the region’s economic success.
He also indicated that LASCOPA will continue to oversee and resolve any consumer complaints related to healthcare services.
Solebo urged consumers to report any poor-quality services, assuring them that LASCOPA is well-positioned to address their issues.
He detailed that the agency has successfully resolved over 9,000 consumer complaints since its inception, recovering significant amounts from service providers that did not meet required standards.
This includes millions of naira retrieved from hospitals that offered unsatisfactory services.
Mr. Solebo elaborated on LASCOPA’s approach to managing consumer complaints, asserting that the agency thoroughly assesses each case to guarantee fair results.
He reassured residents that LASCOPA is prepared to handle their complaints, whether through direct mediation or legal action against non-compliant providers.
He affirmed, “Regardless of the circumstances, LASCOPA is committed to protecting consumers,” highlighting the agency’s dedication to defending the rights of all Lagosians registered under the ILERA EKO scheme.
Explaining the process for filing complaints, Mr. Solebo advised consumers to initially report their concerns to hospital management.
“If you are unsatisfied with their response, you should promptly reach out to LASCOPA,” he added.
He provided detailed contact information, including office locations throughout Lagos, where residents can seek assistance.
He urged, “Do not suffer in silence,” reminding Lagosians that LASCOPA is always available to help them secure the best possible care.
The General Manager also informed the public that LASCOPA has multiple offices across Lagos State, making it easier for residents to submit complaints.
He encouraged Lagosians to utilize the agency’s social media and other communication platforms to report any issues they encounter with service providers.
Solebo assured that LASCOPA will consistently prioritize consumer rights and strive to ensure all residents receive the high-quality care they deserve.
“This starts from the moment you get to the reception of that particular hospital, how you are being attended to, what you went for and if you’re getting treated for the particular reason you went there for. Both parties involved—Lagos State Government, LASHMA, and the service provider—must ensure that consumers are not shortchanged and receive the same treatment as if they were not under the scheme. If any service provider is keying into the scheme, it’s on them to ensure that consumers get value for their money and satisfaction.
“It is also at this point that consumers must be reminded to first and foremost make their complaints known to the management of the hospital. If their concerns are not addressed, they should not suffer in silence but report to LASCOPA. Our office is located at No 2b Soji Adepegba Street, Allen Avenue, Ikeja. Also, we have offices across the state.
“You can also reach us on our social media handles. Once you lodge your complaints, someone will attend to you and ask what you want. You can call 08124993895, 09064323154, or 08992509777. The agency is set out to protect consumers in Lagos State. As a consumer, you have a right to safety and good health”, he highlighted.
