BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU/JUDITH OBIANUA
THE Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Dr. Isaac Akpoveta has issued a firm warning to medical laboratory practitioners across the state, urging them to stop charging enrolled members of the health insurance scheme for laboratory tests.
Speaking during an interactive session and training program held at the commission’s headquarters in Asaba, Dr. Akpoveta stressed that most laboratory tests required by enrollees were already covered under the state’s contributory health scheme.
“There is no justification for asking enrollees to pay for tests that have already been paid for by the commission. This not only undermines the integrity of the health insurance system but also places unnecessary financial burdens on beneficiaries,” he stated.
The meeting, which brought together medical practitioners from various parts of the state, focused on strengthening compliance with the provisions of the health insurance policy, improving service delivery, and ensuring transparency in healthcare charges. Dr. Akpoveta reminded participants that the contributory health scheme was designed to ensure affordable and accessible healthcare for all Deltans, particularly the most vulnerable. He called for increased cooperation from medical professionals to uphold the vision of universal health coverage in the state.
The commission, he noted, would not hesitate to take disciplinary action against practitioners or facilities found to be violating the scheme’s guidelines.
“We expect strict adherence to the provisions of the scheme. Any deviation, especially one that affects patients’ access to care, will be dealt with accordingly,” Akpoveta warned.
The event also featured training sessions on billing protocols, ethical medical practices, and the role of health workers in the success of the contributory health program.
Participants applauded the Director-General for the insightful and engaging interactive session and pledged their support to the commission in ensuring that all enrollees have access to quality healthcare services.
