EDOHIC, NIMC Begin Enrolment Of Vulnerable Residents Into Free Healthcare System
In a renewed effort to expand access to quality and affordable healthcare across Edo State, the Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDOHIC), in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), among other stakeholders, has commenced the enrolment of resident vulnerable individuals and families into the State Equity Scheme under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
A statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the EDOHIC, Portia Osayande, said the exercise which officially commenced at the Ikpema Primary Health Centre in Edo South Senatorial District, marked the onset of a coordinated enrolment drive across 43 communities in the seven Local Government Areas of the district. Similarly, the enrollment has commenced in Edo Central Senatorial District, with the flag-off held on Monday at Ujoelen Primary Health Centre, which covers 37 communities across five Local Government Areas.
“The exercise is set to continue across designated communities in the coming days to ensure universal coverage. The State Equity Scheme provides a social safety net for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children under five, the elderly, persons with disabilities and indigent individuals, enabling them to access essential healthcare services free of charge. The services include maternal and child healthcare, immunization, treatment for common illnesses and emergency services at accredited Facilities”, said Osayande.
Speaking on the development, the Director General of EDOHIC, Dr. Augusta Ikpea-Enaholo, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to achieving the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in line with the SHINE Agenda of the Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, which emphasizes inclusive and equitable access to healthcare for residents in the State.
Dr. Ikpea-Enaholo noted that the collaboration with NIMC ensures each enrollee’s National Identification Number (NIN) is properly captured and verified to improve data integrity and enable easy access to services.
In a related development, the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), a Federal Government initiative co-implemented by states, supports the provision of free or highly subsidized Primary Healthcare Services to the poor and vulnerable.
The Edo State Government’s adaptation of the Initiative through the State Equity Scheme, represents a significant step toward strengthening financial risk protection and ensuring that no resident is left behind.
EDOHIC reiterated that the enrolment exercise would continue in Edo South and Central senatorial districts before progressing to Edo North Senatorial District subsequently.
The Commission asserted its commitment to transparency, collaboration and effective outreach in its mission to achieve inclusive healthcare coverage across the State and advised vulnerable residents to contact the nearest Primary Health Centre or their community leaders for more information on the enrolment schedules and designated registration points across the State.
