The Lagos State Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency has urged residents to seek medical care only from accredited and approved health facilities, warning that patronising unlicensed providers exposes patients to unsafe practices and avoidable health risks.
This was contained in a statement issued by HEFAMAA on Wednesday.
According to the statement, the agency has intensified efforts to sensitise residents on how to identify approved healthcare providers across the state.
Speaking on the importance of the sensitisation, the Permanent Secretary of HEFAMAA, Dr Abiola Idowu, stated that informed patients are central to improving healthcare outcomes.
She noted that public education remains a key strategy in preventing the use of unlicensed health facilities and reducing exposure to unsafe medical practices.
The statement added, “Through continuous sensitisation programmes, community outreach, media engagements and digital platforms, residents are being empowered with information on how to identify accredited health facilities, verify operational status and report suspicious or illegal healthcare providers.”
The Permanent Secretary further stated that the series of motorised awareness campaigns embarked upon by the agency across all local government areas in the state was aimed at reawakening residents’ consciousness regarding their health.
“We have plans to sustain the community engagement and ensure every part of the state, including hinterland communities, is well educated about the activities of the agency,” she said.
“The various communication materials of the agency are in four different languages to further deepen the understanding of members of the public about HEFAMAA and its mandate,” the statement added.
While stressing the importance of feedback, the Permanent Secretary said, “Collaboration between citizens, healthcare providers, and government institutions is essential to building a trustworthy and responsive healthcare system.”
She reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to open communication, accountability, and public participation, stressing that the shared goal remains a safer, more informed, and healthier Lagos State.
