Governor Dauda Lawal has approved a 50% discount in hospital service charges and medical bills for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Zamfara State.

Ibrahim S. Adam, media aide to the Executive Chairman of the Zamfara State Persons with Disabilities Board (ZSPwDB), Usman Ahmad Nahuche, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.

ZSPwDB also applauded Governor Lawal for the approval which will affect persons with disabilities across all government-owned health facilities in Zamfara State.

The board described the policy as a landmark achievement in advancing inclusive healthcare and social protection for persons with disabilities.

It noted that the decision reflects the rescue mission agenda of the present administration and its resolve to leave no one behind, particularly persons with disabilities.

Recall that during the recently concluded Central and West Zonal Townhall Meetings, the Board actively engaged prominent medical doctors and health stakeholders on disability-inclusive healthcare, including discussions on the implementation of the 50% hospital discount for PWDs.

Adam said these engagements further strengthened awareness of health rights, access, and dignity for persons with disabilities.

In furtherance of effective implementation, the board disclosed that it intends to send a delegation to the Ministry of Health to engage relevant authorities.

The engagement will focus on awareness creation, clarification of operational modalities, and strengthening collaboration between health institutions and disability stakeholders to ensure smooth and uniform implementation of the policy across the state.

The board also called on persons with disabilities to obtain valid identification cards, once modalities are fully clarified, to enable them to take full advantage of the healthcare benefits provided under the policy.

Under the able leadership of Chairman, Nahuche, the board reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Ministry of Health and other relevant MDAs to ensure the policy is fully functional and impactful.

“The Executive Chairman continues to express appreciation to Governor Dr. Dauda Lawal for his consistent support and commitment to improving the welfare and dignity of persons with disabilities in the state,” Adam said.