Participants in the awareness-raising and sensitization walk in Alausa, Ikeja, on Y2023 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day.The Lagos State administration has declared that, since the program's launch, 923,000 residents have enrolled in the Lagos State health insurance program, also known as Ilera-Eko.
Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), announced this achievement after a walk to raise awareness and raise consciousness on the occasion of the Y2023 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day in Alausa, Ikeja. The extension of the Ilera Eko program, which covers 448 hospitals statewide instead of only 57, was highlighted by Dr. Zamba.
"At LASHMA, we've reached 923,000 Lagos citizens through Ilera-Eko thus far, with the goal of covering our whole target group. As a result of our network's expansion from 57 to 448 healthcare facilities throughout the state, every local government or LCDA is fully covered, according to Dr. Zamba.
Zamba went on to say that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Universal Health Coverage Day to highlight the need for a strong healthcare system that ensures all citizens have access to high-quality, reasonably priced healthcare services.
The current administration's commitment to guaranteeing fair healthcare delivery in the state is in line with the theme, "Health for all: Time for action," she stated.
"Every year, the World Health Organization observes December 12th as Universal Health Coverage Day, underscoring the significance of guaranteeing fair access to reasonably priced, high-quality healthcare for all individuals to lead satisfying lives,” she stressed.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the administration's commitment to the THEMES PLUS agenda's emphasis on health and the environment.
As part of furthering the aim for universal health coverage, efforts will continue to expand Ilera Eko's coverage to all people, particularly those in the informal sector.
Dr. Zamba advised all people to enroll in the state health insurance program, highlighting the importance that insurance plays in developing a cost-effective healthcare system and boosting health awareness.
She underlined that the Ilera Eko Health Insurance plan is reasonably priced, costing 8,500 Naira for an individual and 40,000 Naira for a family with four children under the age of 23.