Lagos govt enrolls 923,000 residents in health insurance scheme

The Lagos State Government has registered 923,000 residents into the state Health Insurance Scheme, ‘Ilera-Eko’, since its inception. Dr Emmanuella Zamba, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), disclosed this in a statement to celebrate the Universal Health Coverage Day in Lagos on Wednesday.

READ ALSO:Kaduna state enrols 500,000 in contributory health scheme

The state health insurance scheme was enacted into law in May 2015 while scheme became  operational in Dec. 2018.

Zamba said that the scheme had expanded its coverage of health facilities from 57 to 448 hospitals, ensuring comprehensive coverage in every Local Government and LCDA in the state.

She reiterated the administration’s dedication to the health and environment mandate of the THEMES PLUS Agenda.

“Efforts will persist in extending Ilera-Eko’s coverage to all residents, especially within the informal sector, as part of advancing the universal health coverage agenda,” the official said.

Zamba advised residents to enrol in the scheme, noting that health insurance was critical to raising health awareness and establishing a cost-effective healthcare system.

She also emphasised the affordability of the health scheme package at N8,500 per individual, and N40,000 for a family of four children under 23 years old.

Zamba said that Universal Health Coverage Day underscored the necessity for a robust healthcare system, guaranteeing accessible, high-quality, and affordable healthcare services for all residents.

According to her, this year’s theme, ‘Health for All: Time for Action,’ aligns with the current administration’s commitment to ensuring equitable healthcare delivery in the state.

NAN/Wumi