BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
The Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC,) has enrolled 1,000 indigent residents of Oshimili South Local Government Area into the state’s health insurance scheme, as part of ongoing efforts to expand access to quality healthcare for vulnerable persons.
Speaking during the registration exercise, the Director-General of the Commission, Dr. Isaac, explained that the scheme is a social health insurance initiative designed primarily to support indigent and vulnerable members of society who cannot afford quality healthcare.
According to him, the commission has so far registered over 2.8 million enrollees across the state, with about 80 per cent of beneficiaries drawn from vulnerable and indigent populations. He noted that the scheme reflects the commitment of the Delta State Government to ensuring that no citizen is denied healthcare due to financial constraints.
Dr. Isaac disclosed that the exercise in Oshimili South was carried out on behalf of Hon. Bridget, who sponsored the enrollment of 1,000 indigent persons from the community. He described the gesture as commendable, stressing that health insurance for the poor has a long-term impact by improving family wellbeing, reducing poverty, and increasing productivity.
He explained that although the impact of health insurance may not be immediately visible, healthier families ultimately lead to a healthier society and sustained development.
The Director-General further highlighted the various plans under the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme, including the formal sector plan for civil and public servants, as well as the informal sector plan targeted at artisans, traders, and other self-employed individuals. He added that the informal sector plan has been heavily subsidized by the state government, allowing individuals to register with as little as ₦7,000, while the government covers the balance.
Dr. Isaac emphasized that registered enrollees are entitled to a wide range of medical services, including treatment for common illnesses and major procedures, noting that the cost of healthcare without insurance often far exceeds the registration fee.
He applauded the sponsor Member representing Oshimili South Senatorial district Hon Bridget Anyafulu for her philanthropic efforts to ensuring that all vulnerable people have access to affordable health care services, as he appealed to philanthropists, high-net-worth individuals, organizations, and political leaders across the state to key into the Indigent Adoption Initiative of the commission by sponsoring health insurance for vulnerable persons in their communities.
“Instead of spending resources on less productive ventures, investing in the health of the people guarantees a stronger economy and a more productive society,” he said.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to deepening health insurance coverage across Delta State, in line with the vision of the state government to provide affordable and accessible healthcare for all residents.
In her remarks, the sponsor Hon. Bridget Anyafulu said that one thousand beneficiaries will be able to receive treatment free of charge from designated hospitals nearest to them for a period of one year.
She applauded the State Government for its commitment to providing and assuring affordable health care for all Deltans.
