With determination to achieve the overall objective of ensuring universal health coverage, the Delta State government has underscored the necessity of increasing enrollment in the health insurance scheme across the State.
The Director-General of Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Olorogun Dr Isaac Akpoveta, made the call on the occasion of the Flag-Off/Distribution of Health Insurance Cards to the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative Adoptees of the Oganihu Umu Ogbekenu Foundation in Onicha-Olona Community on Monday April 1st, 2024, in Aniocha North LGA Of Delta State.
While saying the DSCHC is determined to increase the number of enrollees from its currrent figure of over two million, Dr. Akpoveta noted that he was immensely delighted to stand before the community to celebrate the remarkable generosity and compassion of the Oganihu Umu Ogbekenu Foundation.
“The adoption and purchase of health insurance for 100 vulnerable individuals in your community is not just an act of charity; it is a demonstration of profound empathy and a tangible commitment to the well-being of our people”, he added.
The DG asserted that “the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative, pioneered by the DSCHC, aims to ensure that every resident, regardless of their socio-economic and political status, has access to quality healthcare. It is heartening to see the spirit of solidarity and community support exemplified by this foundation, whose noble gesture will provide essential health coverage for those who need it most. With just N7000 per person you can purchase our health insurance premium for your neighbor, which will enable them to access quality health care for a whole year. This is exactly what the Oganihu Umu Ogbekenu Foundation has just done, and the reason we are here today”.
“Healthcare should not be a luxury reserved for the privileged few; it is a fundamental human right that must be guaranteed to all. By stepping forward to adopt enrollees and purchase health insurance for the vulnerable members of your community, this foundation has demonstrated a profound understanding of this principle and shown us the power of collective action in creating positive change.”
Still in his speech, he disclosed that enrollees of the scheme have access to treatment of over 80 percent of prevailing ailments including malaria, diabetes, hypertension, cough, catarrh, among others with surgeries where necessary. Dr. Akpoveta thereby charged the public, particularly well-to-do Deltans, to be inspired by the selflessness and dedication of the Foundation by also sponsoring vulnerable people in their community.
“Let us all take up the mantle of responsibility and join hands in supporting our fellow community members who are in need. Whether through philanthropic initiatives, volunteering, or advocacy, there are countless ways in which we can contribute to the well-being of those around us”.
“Together, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy and dignified life. Let us seize this moment as a call to action, a reminder that our collective strength lies in our ability to care for one another and uplift those who are less fortunate. This is what the M.0.R.E. Agenda of the Oborevwori administration stands for. Think M.O.R.E. And do M.O.R.E for your neighbor.” The DG of DSCHC asserted while addressing Onicha-Olona people.
Dr. Akpoveta noted that the journey towards ensuring the most Vulnerable members of our society have access to quality healthcare is a testament to DSCHC’s unwavering commitment to leaving no one behind in the pursuit of universal healthcare coverage in Delta State.
“As you have seen today the indigent enrollee adoption initiative underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing healthcare disparities. Through this initiative, we aim to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage to indigent individuals, thereby improving their health outcomes and promoting social equity within our communities”, he stated.
The Director-General of Oganihu Umu Ogbukene Foundation, commended the Dr Akpoveta and his team for enrolling their Enrollees and coming to distribute the Health Insurance Card to their Vulnerable Individuals within a short time.
He noted that despite the tight schedules of Dr Akpoveta and the time typically reserved for celebrating Easter with his family,, he opted to come to Onicha-Olona to enroll his people into the Health Insurance scheme and also carry out a sensization campaign, on the benefits of health insurance, for the community.
The highlights of the program were the distribution of cards to Enrollees, sensitization and conferment/ presentation of plaque of honour as Health Insurance Ambassador of Delta State to the Directorship of the Oganihu Umu Ogbukene Foundation.
