Ikpea-Enaholo: New Diaspora Programme to Strengthen Edo’s Drive for Universal Health Coverage
The Director General of the Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDOHIC), Dr. Augusta Ikpea-Enaholo, has announced the introduction of a new Diaspora and Philanthropy Health Initiative, aimed at mobilising the expertise, resources and goodwill of Edo indigenes across the world to support healthcare delivery and expand access to quality care for residents.
Dr. Ikpea-Enaholo disclosed this during an interaction with newsmen in Benin City, describing the Governor’s SHINE Agenda as a transformative framework that places strong emphasis on the health and welfare of citizens across the state.
According to her, under Senator Monday Okpebholo’s leadership, EDOHIC has implemented a series of reforms and interventions geared towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Edo State. She revealed that over 55,000 new residents have been enrolled into various health plans, while 25 additional healthcare facilities have been accredited to boost access, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
She further noted that the Commission has strengthened its policy framework with the introduction of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that promote transparency, accountability and an improved enrollee experience. These include the Emergency Care Policy, Annual Wellness Checks Policy, and the Patient Rights and Responsibilities Charter, all of which are designed to protect enrollees and enhance service delivery across the state.
Dr. Ikpea-Enaholo added that EDOHIC’s partnership with the Edo State Ministry of Health and the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (EDSPHCDA) has expanded the reach of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), ensuring free consultations, essential medicines and maternal and child healthcare services for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children and the elderly.
She emphasised that the new Diaspora and Philanthropy Health Initiative will deepen global partnerships and amplify the Commission’s impact., adding “Through the governor’s continued support, EDOHIC is strengthening the foundation of our health system, ensuring that no Edo resident is left behind”.
