…. As LASAEC Commends Lifesaving Heroes, Advocates for Enhanced Emergency Care
By Aminat Umar
On October 17, 2024, the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre (LASAEC) marked World Trauma Day with a significant event that gathered healthcare professionals, government officials, and community leaders. The occasion emphasized the critical importance of trauma care in saving lives, spotlighting the tireless efforts of first responders and medical teams who work at the frontline of emergencies.
Speakers at the event addressed the urgent need for a robust emergency medical system, sharing ongoing initiatives aimed at boosting the quality and accessibility of trauma care in Lagos State. The gathering served as a platform for collaboration, as stakeholders explored strategies to strengthen emergency preparedness, ensuring that the state remains equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to crises.
According to the press release signed by the Director, Public Affairs, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, it states that during the World Trauma Day event, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, delivered a heartfelt address, praising the vital role of the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre (LASAEC) and its dedicated staff. He reflected on the center’s critical position on the front lines of emergency care, particularly in handling traumatic incidents.
“Your work here is a matter of life and death,” Prof. Abayomi remarked, emphasizing the high stakes faced by the team when victims of road accidents and other emergencies arrive at their doors. His words highlighted the immense responsibility carried by LASAEC’s staff, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to providing swift and lifesaving care under pressure.
Prof. Abayomi commended LASAEC for its strategic location, which enables rapid response to emergencies, and highlighted the exceptional expertise of its staff. He reserved special praise for the center’s Medical Director, Dr. Adeolu Arogundade, whose leadership and skill in trauma medicine have earned him international acclaim. Prof. Abayomi acknowledged that under Dr. Arogundade’s guidance, LASAEC has become a beacon of hope for trauma victims, setting a high standard for emergency care and saving countless lives.
During his presentation, Prof. Abayomi outlined the Lagos State Government’s initiatives to enhance trauma care and emergency services, sharing data that showcased the impact of these efforts. He highlighted a significant drop in severe accidents following the ban on motorcycle taxis in certain areas, a policy that has already yielded promising results.
“This policy has already shown promising results in lowering the number of severe accidents,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for continued investment in trauma care and capacity development. Prof. Abayomi’s presentation underscored the government’s commitment to making Lagos safer by not only improving emergency response but also addressing the root causes of traumatic incidents.
Prof. Abayomi also drew attention to the alarming rates of trauma cases in Lagos, pointing out that many stem from road traffic accidents and incidents of domestic violence. He stressed the need for a unified approach, calling on various healthcare sectors to work together to address these issues and enhance response times.
“We must be prepared for trauma cases, as the statistics show a significant number of lives are at risk,” he cautioned. Prof. Abayomi emphasized the importance of better training for emergency responders and the need to raise public awareness about basic first aid, highlighting that quick, informed actions can often make the difference between life and death.
A major highlight of Prof. Abayomi’s presentation was the integration of advanced technology into the state’s emergency response systems. He unveiled plans for a cutting-edge digital health information platform designed to streamline care coordination. This system would enable faster, more efficient routing of trauma patients to the most suitable facilities, ensuring they receive critical care without delay. By harnessing technology, the initiative aims to bridge gaps in emergency response, improve patient outcomes, and set a new standard for trauma care in Lagos. “Time is of the essence in trauma care; we need to know exactly where to take patients for the best possible outcomes,” he postulated.
Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, emphasized the importance of ongoing enhancements in equipment and infrastructure at LASAEC. Reflecting on a previous visit where the facility struggled due to limited resources, she underscored the urgency of addressing these gaps.
“We need to ensure that our trauma centers are equipped with the latest technology and resources to provide efficient care,” she stated, advocating for improved systems across the board. Dr. Ogunyemi particularly highlighted the need for better bed management systems to facilitate smoother patient transfers, ensuring that no time is lost in delivering critical care. Her remarks called for sustained investment to keep LASAEC at the forefront of emergency medicine.
Dr. Ogunyemi reassured the LASAEC staff of the government’s unwavering commitment to their professional development through ongoing training programs and salary enhancements. “Your dedication and expertise are vital to our healthcare system,” she emphasized, acknowledging the essential role they play in saving lives. She also highlighted recent initiatives aimed at improving wages for medical professionals in Lagos, reinforcing the government’s recognition of their hard work and the importance of investing in their well-being. Dr. Ogunyemi’s remarks served as both an affirmation and a call to action for continuous improvement in the healthcare sector.
On the basis of this however, in recognition of the tireless efforts of LASAEC staff, Dr. Ogunyemi expressed heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering commitment to patient care. She affirmed the government’s dedication to providing the essential resources and support needed to ensure that Lagos remains a leader in emergency medical services. Her appreciation not only celebrated their hard work but also reinforced the collective goal of advancing trauma care and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in the state.
Dr. Arogundade, the Medical Director of LASAEC, delivered a compelling overview of the center’s history, notable achievements, and ambitious future plans. He highlighted the critical need for training and retaining skilled healthcare professionals within the trauma sector, emphasizing that a well-equipped workforce is essential for delivering high-quality emergency care. His insights painted a picture of a center dedicated not only to excellence in trauma response but also to fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development, ensuring that LASAEC remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation in Lagos.
In conclusion, the atmosphere buzzed with hope and determination. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, reminded of their vital roles in combating trauma and the importance of collaboration in enhancing healthcare services. The day not only honored past accomplishments but also laid the groundwork for future initiatives designed to elevate trauma care standards across Lagos State. This gathering served as a rallying call, inspiring stakeholders to unite their efforts and drive meaningful change in the pursuit of improved patient outcomes.
