Bolaji Sampson
In a bid to reduce maternal mortality and improve access to emergency obstetric care, the Ogun State Government, through the Ministry of Health, has launched a Rural Maternal Health Emergency Transportation service. This initiative, in partnership with Emergency Response Africa, aims to provide rapid and reliable emergency transportation for pregnant women and infants in rural areas, ensuring they can access healthcare facilities promptly during emergencies.
The official launch took place at the Odeda Local Government Secretariat, with dignitaries, including the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, and the Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, in attendance. Also present were government officials, royal fathers, and community leaders from across the state.
The new service is designed to deliver emergency care within 10 minutes or less, significantly reducing delays that often result in preventable deaths. Speaking at the event, Dr. Tomi Coker commended the initiative, describing it as a major milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to lower maternal and infant mortality rates.
A key feature of the service is its reliance on technology. The emergency transportation will be managed by trained Community-Based First Responders, utilizing USSD and SMS-based dispatch solutions to ensure quick and effective responses during medical emergencies.
Additionally, beneficiaries of the service will receive vouchers after registration, providing three antenatal care trips and three emergency transport services. This service aims to ensure that pregnant women can attend antenatal appointments and be safely transported to healthcare facilities during emergencies. The program highlights Ogun State’s commitment to improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations.
For emergencies, the Ogun State Ambulance and Emergency Service hotline is 0811 200 0033.
