BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
THE Director-General, Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Dr. Isaac Akpoveta has announced a significant expansion of the state’s health insurance scheme, disclosing that enrolment has increased from about 1.3 million to 2,783,045 beneficiaries under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
The DG made this known during a media interaction where he outlined key reforms and milestones recorded by the Commission. He expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for the opportunity to serve, describing the governor’s leadership as widely recognised at both national and international levels for its impact on healthcare delivery in Delta State.
According to him, Delta State currently records the highest number of health insurance enrollees in the country, noting that beneficiaries can also access healthcare services in hospitals outside the state, an indication of rising confidence in the scheme.
To ensure quality service delivery, the DG disclosed that more than 300 service quality monitors have been deployed across healthcare facilities in the state. He added that the Commission has strengthened transparency and accountability through the introduction of a robust electronic system, known as Rob SE, making Delta State the only state operating such a comprehensive digital platform for health insurance management.
He explained that prior to his assumption of office; the scheme was burdened by large outstanding hospital bills. However, the transition to a fully ICT-driven system has streamlined bill processing, enabling healthcare providers to submit claims and receive payments promptly and directly.
The DG further noted that the Commission has established dedicated health insurance units in hospitals to facilitate quicker access to services for enrollees. He said regular meetings and capacity-building sessions are also organised for primary healthcare coordinators to enhance effective management of the scheme.
Highlighting the state government’s focus on maternal and child health, the Director-General stated that pregnant women in Delta State are entitled to free antenatal care, delivery and caesarean section under the health insurance scheme. He added that newborn babies also receive free healthcare services.
Under the equity plan, the Commission provides coverage for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children under five and indigent persons, with the state government funding about 45 per cent of the programme. He explained that the formal sector plan covers civil servants and private sector employees, while pooled funding ensures the long-term sustainability of the scheme.
The DG said the Commission has prioritised expanding health insurance coverage to rural and hard-to-reach communities; a move he noted has contributed to a significant reduction in maternal and child mortality rates across the state.
He also revealed that enrolment has been boosted through the Commission’s online landing page, with two enrollee groups already registered, alongside initiatives such as the artisan enrolment inducement programme targeting informal sector workers.
While acknowledging the successes recorded so far, the Director-General identified funding constraints as a major challenge. He appealed to corporate organisations and development partners to support the health insurance scheme through their Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, in order to help Delta State achieve universal health coverage for all residents
