… As LASHMA Advocates Affordable Healthcare for All
In a vibrant display of commitment to ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for all, the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) commemorated the Y2024 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day with an Awareness Walk. The walk traversed the Lagos State Government Secretariat, Alausa-Ikeja, and its environs, drawing attention to the importance of health insurance under the “Ilera Eko” initiative.
The procession commenced at the LASHMA Headquarters, Good Shepherd House, opposite Alausa Secretariat Gate. Participants made strategic stops at the Public Service Office, the Lagos State Ministry of Health, and the Lagos State House of Assembly. The event attracted stakeholders across various sectors, reinforcing the government’s commitment to health equity.
Speaking on the significance of the event, the Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, emphasised the Agency’s pivotal role in driving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Lagos. “Today, December 12, is globally recognized as UHC Day. In Lagos State, we are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to quality healthcare through Ilera Eko, our state health insurance scheme,” she stated.
Dr. Zamba highlighted the Agency’s achievements, including the rollout of an equity fund that guarantees healthcare access for over 300,000 vulnerable residents. She added, “This year, we began with a media parley to clarify misconceptions about health insurance and followed up with several activation activities. The equity fund, supported by 1% of Lagos State’s consolidated revenue, has set a benchmark as a first-line charge, ensuring funds are consistently available for vulnerable groups.”
She commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, describing him as Lagos State’s UHC Brand Ambassador. “His executive order making health insurance mandatory underscores his dedication to universal health. We are working to ensure that every Lagosian can access affordable, quality healthcare, irrespective of their financial situation.”
Dr. Zamba further announced that the Agency would intensify its public awareness campaign, leveraging various platforms to encourage Lagosians to subscribe to Ilera Eko before enforcement begins next year. She said, “Health insurance is a safety net. It guarantees that you and your family can access care without financial hardship. This is our message during this walk and beyond.”
LASHMA’s Head of Planning, Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Mrs. Adetoro Tayo-Adetoro, reiterated the day’s significance, urging residents to embrace the Ilera Eko plans. “Health insurance is not just a necessity; it is a gift of security. I encourage Lagosians to invest in their health and that of their loved ones by subscribing to our affordable plans,” she stated.