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By Henry Uche
Lagos State Government has urged residents to take advantage of the Ilera Eko Health Insurance scheme, saying wider access to affordable, sustainable, accessible and quality healthcare will promote healthier lives and boost productivity across the state.
Speaking at a two- day capacity building for health correspondents in Lagos, put together by the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), the Coordinating Director, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Adesegun Ogundeji, assured that there are performance mechanism to check the progress level and complaints resolution.
Represented by Director, Public Affairs department of the Ministry, Mr. Kayode Sutton, he added that, while journalists are familiarized journalists with the State health scheme and, particularly, the mandatory social health insurance scheme, he averred that the ministry would leave no stone unturned to ensure that the Executive Order signed by the State governor, Babajide Sanwo-olu, on July 16, 2024.
Geared towards making social health insurance mandatory for all residents of Lagos State, irrespective of their state of origin or nationality, he confirmed that an enforcement team has been inaugurated to ensure that no one is exploited or undermined.
“Beyond compliance, it is important for residents to understand the value of the scheme. With the applicable premium of N15,000 for an individual, N55,000 for a family of four, or N80,000 for a family of six, enrollees can access a broad range of healthcare services, including consultations, specialist care, dental and eye care, selected surgeries, treatment of common illnesses such as malaria and typhoid, management of hypertension and diabetes, emergency services, childhood healthcare, medical tests, prescribed drugs and other essential services”
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He urges newsmen to go beyond mere reporting events, to help shape public understanding and influence the choices people make. “Through accurate, balanced and consistent reportage, you can help residents understand the importance of health insurance, the benefits of Ilera Eko and how they can access the services available to them” he added.
In a keynote address, Permanent Secretary, LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, reiterates that advancing health insurance awareness, transparency and accountability remains her top priority.
“Lagos State Government remains firmly committed to ensuring that all residents, regardless of socio-economic status, have access to quality, affordable and equitable healthcare. To demonstrate leadership by example, all Lagos State Public Servants have been enrolled on Ilera Eko, with Government paying 75 per cent of the annual premium while Public Servants contribute 25 per cent.
“In addition, one per cent of the Consolidated Revenue Fund has been dedicated as an Equity Fund for vulnerable residents. The Fund was increased from N1billion to N3billion and approved as a one-line charge by Mr. Governor, reinforcing the State’s commitment to leaving no one behind”
Represented by the business development manager of the Agency, Mr. Olatunji Zamba seeks a sustained awareness and accurate dissemination of information to Lagosians by the media. For every information about the scheme and benefits, residents are advised to approach designated experts at the Agency or its partners to enable them make informed decisions of their health and work life.
