Lagos Patients Struggle with Cash-Only Payments in Hospitals

Patients seeking care in Lagos State-owned hospitals are encountering severe challenges at payment points, where network failures and a lack of cash alternatives hinder access to urgent medical services. An investigation by THISDAY revealed that the state’s electronic payment system, which relies on a single payment provider, has led to prolonged ordeals for patients.

This monopolistic arrangement has resulted in delayed treatments, missed appointments, and even avoidable deaths. A viral video featuring Mrs. Kafayat Oshodi highlighted these issues, as she recounted being unable to pay for emergency care at Randle General Hospital due to the insistence on cash payments, despite having multiple debit cards.

The Lagos State Government's response to the public outcry has been criticized for not addressing the core issue of cash demands in hospitals. The reliance on a single payment provider means that when it fails, patients are left without options to pay for their care.