The Lagos State Government has called on residents to fully utilize the ILERA EKO Health Insurance Scheme, emphasizing that it was designed to provide easy access to quality healthcare services across the state.
Earlier this year, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu signed an Executive Order to domesticate the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act and bolster the Lagos State Health Scheme Law of 2015. This move made enrollment in the ILERA EKO scheme mandatory for all residents, ensuring more people can access essential healthcare services.
Speaking at a press briefing in Ikeja to mark Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day 2024, themed “Health: It’s on the (house) Government,” Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), revealed that 1,152,455 residents are now enrolled in the scheme. This marks an increase of 229,455 enrollees compared to December 2023, when the number stood at 923,000.
Dr. Zamba urged individuals familiar with the health insurance program to educate others about its benefits. She announced plans for the Ministry of Health to establish a dedicated radio station to raise awareness of the scheme’s importance.
She also encouraged residents to report any issues they face with the health scheme, noting that a team of 30 customer care staff is available to address complaints and improve user experience.
“This year’s theme highlights the critical role of government leadership in ensuring healthcare remains accessible, affordable, and equitable for everyone,” Zamba said. “Universal Health Coverage is a global ideal and a fundamental human right. Everyone deserves access to quality healthcare services without financial burden.”
She praised the strides made by Lagos State toward Universal Health Coverage, driven by the ILERA EKO scheme, which reflects the government’s commitment to health equity.
Since the Lagos State Health Scheme Law was enacted in 2015, LASHMA has worked to protect residents from financial hardships caused by health expenses while guaranteeing access to quality care.
“Investing in health strengthens our society and economy. A healthy population leads to a more productive workforce, stronger communities, and greater national resilience. Achieving Universal Health Coverage requires strong political will, strategic funding, and policies that prioritize vulnerable populations,” she added.
Dr. Zamba also highlighted the agency’s partnership with healthcare provider networks, which are integral to the scheme’s success by providing channels for inquiries and complaints.
The agency is actively addressing the needs of vulnerable groups through the Eko Social Health Alliance (EKOSHA), an initiative ensuring no Lagosian is left behind in the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage.
Additionally, Adetoro Tayo Adetoro, Head of Monitoring and Evaluation at LASHMA, confirmed the enrollment figures and noted ongoing collaborations with other agencies to expand the scheme’s reach and impact.
Residents are encouraged to fulfill their obligation to enroll in the ILERA EKO scheme, a vital step toward achieving the shared goal of Universal Health Coverage for all.
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