The Joint Learning Agenda for Universal Health Coverage (JLA4UHC) and the Lagos Civil Society Participation for Development (LACSOP) have tasked the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) to commit to implementing the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, with the aim of improving access to healthcare services among poor and vulnerable people in the state.

In a joint press release, yesterday, by JLA4UHC and LACSOP, the groups expressed delight with the improvements in the health insurance scheme in Lagos State and the proposed inauguration of the CSO-LASHMA committee, which would ensure citizens’ voices and inclusion in the delivery of health insurance.

The Chairman, Board of Trustees at LACSOP and the Lagos State JLA Nigeria Focal Point, Ayo Adebusoye, underscored how Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme tagged “Ilera Eko”, has helped to ensure that vulnerable residents across Lagos State are enrolled into the health plan.

With regards to the LSHS’ alignment to the NHIA, Adebusoye said the state government should improve on the governance and coordination of the LSHS such that an active multi-stakeholder accountability platform, which comprises representatives from the primary healthcare board, civil society and other key stakeholders, is established.

The Co-convener of JLA4UHC, Olayide Akanni, noted that there was a gap in the inclusion of comprehensive multi-level data reporting channels from facility to the NHIA in the state operational guideline.

She, therefore, charged the state government to continue to work on its shortcomings to ensure that the NHIA is fully implemented, and that poor and vulnerable persons in the state have access to quality healthcare services.

She also expressed optimism that the proposed amendment of the LASHMA regulation would incorporate current realities and align with the NHIA Act 2022.