Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is EPIC?
EPIC stands for Early Pathways for Inclusive Care. It is a Lagos-based programme that helps families notice early signs of disability in children, get the right assessments and connect to services in health, education and the community.
Q2. Who is EPIC for?
EPIC focuses on children aged 0–10 years who may have difficulties with seeing, hearing, moving, learning, communication or behaviour. It also supports their caregivers, teachers and health providers.
Q3. Is EPIC a hospital or a physical centre?
No. EPIC is a pathway and system that connects existing services – schools, primary health centres, general hospitals, specialist clinics and community programmes – so families have a clearer journey from concern to care.
Q4. Does EPIC provide free treatment?
EPIC mainly focuses on screening, referral and system strengthening. Some services accessed through EPIC may be free, subsidised or paid, depending on the facility and programme. The Care Finder directory will show what information is available for each service.
Q5. What types of services can EPIC connect my child to?
Depending on need and availability, EPIC can help link you to:
Q6. Will EPIC tell me exactly what condition my child has?
EPIC itself does not diagnose. It helps you reach the right professionals who can assess your child and explain any diagnosis or description of their needs.
Q7. Is the self-checker a medical test?
No. The self-checker is not a medical test and does not replace seeing a professional. It is a guided reflection tool to help you decide if your child may need an assessment.
Q8. What happens after I complete the self-checker?
You will receive simple guidance on whether to seek assessment and where to go. You can also choose to register your details and explore the service directory.
Q9. Is my information safe?
EPIC aims to protect your privacy. Only authorised providers, in line with applicable policies and your consent, can access your information for the purpose of supporting your care.
Q10. Do we need to live in Lagos to use EPIC?
The EPIC pathway and service directory are designed first for Lagos State. Families living outside Lagos can still use the self-checker and information, but services listed will focus on Lagos.
Q11. Can I use EPIC if my child has already been diagnosed?
Yes. You can still use EPIC to find services, participate in playsites or events, and connect with additional support.
Q12. Does EPIC support adults with disabilities?
EPIC focuses on younger children. There are related initiatives – such as N-ABLE for youth and adults and GRACE for older adults – that aim to strengthen services across the lifespan.
Q13. How can my organisation or company partner with EPIC?
Visit the Get Involved page and complete the partnership interest form or email partnerships@epicaccess.org. We will respond with possible areas of collaboration.
Q14. Can I donate to support EPIC?
Yes. Organisations and individuals can support EPIC through financial contributions, in-kind donations (such as assistive devices, materials and equipment) and technical expertise. Details will be provided on the Get Involved page.
Q15. What should I do in an emergency?
If your child is severely unwell, injured, having difficulty breathing, having a seizure or in danger, please go immediately to the nearest emergency facility or call local emergency numbers. EPIC and the Care Finder tool are not emergency services.
