Lagos State Subsidizes Blood Product Screening Fees, Emphasizes Voluntary Donation

In a proactive move towards healthcare accessibility, the Lagos State Government has subsidized the expenses associated with screening blood products. This initiative aims to reduce financial burdens on healthcare providers and the public, ensuring wider access to life-saving blood, as revealed by the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service, Dr. Bodunrin Oshikomaiya during a Stakeholders’ Engagement meeting at the Providence Hotel, Ikeja.

Acknowledging the economic challenges contributing to increased screening fees, Dr. Oshikomaiya highlighted the agency’s proposal for an access fee of N13,500 due to rising costs from 5,000 naira to 8,000 naira per unit. Recognizing the strain this imposes, the State Government has approved a subsidy of N6,500 per unit to ease the financial impact and facilitate broader access to this vital product.

Emphasizing the government’s commitment to safe blood products, Dr. Oshikomaiya stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement and the media’s role in promoting blood donation drives. Encouraging voluntary donation, she highlighted its life-saving significance while assuring the public of comprehensive health checks for donors.

At the meeting, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Olumide Sogunle, commended the Blood Transfusion Service’s dedication and urged media support in advocating for blood donation awareness, emphasizing the vital role of blood in sustaining life.