This initiative is part of the state’s broader push towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Speaking at a media briefing to mark the 2024 Universal Health Coverage Day, LASHMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Emmanuella Zamba, stressed the government’s drive to eliminate out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and ensure affordable, equitable access to healthcare for all Lagosians.
“Universal Health Coverage is not just a global ideal; it is a fundamental human right,” Zamba said while highlighting the strides made since the enactment of the Lagos State Health Scheme Law in 2015.
The ILERA EKO scheme offers comprehensive coverage and has recently expanded its benefits package to meet evolving healthcare needs. Enhanced enrollment processes and public awareness campaigns have also simplified access to the scheme.
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Zamba credited Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, noting that his recent Executive Order mandating health insurance aligns with the domesticated National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, reinforcing the state’s commitment to UHC.
“Health is the backbone of a productive society. Investing in it ensures national resilience and a stronger workforce,” Zamba said, adding that partnerships with healthcare providers across Lagos have bolstered service quality.
Head of Planning, Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation at LASHMA, Mrs. Adetoro Tayo-Adetoro, revealed that LASHMA has introduced several innovations to enhance the scheme’s reach. Collaborations with the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) allow residents to enrol at 62 outlets statewide, while the “Drug Access Expansion” program enables enrollees to access medications at over 300 community pharmacies.
For vulnerable groups, the Eko Social Health Alliance (EKOSHA) provides free or subsidized healthcare services, ensuring that indigent residents are not left behind.
“ILERA EKO ensures no Lagosian is excluded,” Tayo-Adetoro said, reiterating the scheme’s affordability, accessibility, and extensive provider network.
LASHMA plans to intensify public awareness campaigns to drive compliance with the mandatory health insurance law while leveraging technology to enhance service delivery.
Dr. Zamba urged journalists to support the initiative by educating the public on the benefits of ILERA EKO. “Your platforms are vital in ensuring every Lagos resident understands their role in achieving Universal Health Coverage,” she said.
