Ikorodu: The iCare Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, extended free medical services to more than 500 residents of Ikorodu, Lagos State, on Saturday. This outreach program, facilitated by Mr. Babajimi Benson, who represents the Ikorodu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, offered a range of healthcare services including general medical checks, dental care, and eye examinations.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Women Leader of the iCare Foundation, Mrs. Odumbo Olabisi, highlighted that the initiative aimed to promote preventive healthcare and raise awareness about the importance of health. Beneficiaries underwent registration and screenings for blood pressure and blood sugar, followed by referrals to appropriate departments if needed. The outreach featured three sections: general medical, dental, and optometry, with further investigations referred to the General Hospital for comprehensive treatment.
Olabisi noted that the foundation had previously organized a large-scale outreach in 2023 and another two months ago, alongside regular smaller healthcare interventions within the constituency. The foundation also supports indigent students, orphans, patients needing medical assistance, and vulnerable residents through monthly food distribution programs. She encouraged residents to seek continuous medical care and advised them not to wait for the next outreach to address their health concerns. Olabisi also called on government entities to enhance healthcare services, emphasizing the residents’ demand for more accessible and affordable medical care.
Dr. Adewale Ogunleye, a medical doctor participating in the outreach, emphasized the importance of routine medical screenings, stating that many conditions like hypertension and diabetes are often discovered accidentally during such events. He stressed that early detection is crucial for saving lives and reducing treatment costs.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the organizers for bringing essential healthcare services closer to their community. Mrs. Kehinde Adebayo, who received dental care, appreciated the program as it provided her with much-needed treatment that she couldn’t afford otherwise. Mr. Rasheed Balogun viewed the outreach as a timely and beneficial initiative for low-income residents. Similarly, Mrs. Juliana Akinola, who had a general medical check, discovered her high blood pressure and was advised to seek further medical tests. Mrs. Esther Ojo, who attended the optometry section, received guidance on vision care, addressing her reading difficulties.
The outreach, which included optometry services, was also praised by beneficiaries like Mr. AbdulGaniyu Bello, who appreciated the comprehensive care offered by the foundation.