As part of efforts to actualize the Universal Health Coverage, the Nasarawa State Health Insurance Agency (NASHIA) has appealed to politicians, philanthropists to enroll the less privileged persons for health coverage.

The Agency said the health of people in every constituency is as important as other services in constituency projects.

The Executive Secretary of NASHIA, Dr. Simon Istifanus, made the appeal at a one-day media engagement in Lafia, the State Capital.

Dr. Simon said that it has become very expedient to give timely attention to the health of citizens. Hence, the need to include the health insurance of citizens in constituency projects.

“When any constituent provides health insurance coverage to members, the burden of request for hospital assistance when your people are sick would be handled by the health insurance agency”, Dr. Simon said.

While giving the overview of the NASHIA performance, Pharmacist Kaki Maikudi revealed that only 188,000, representing 6.3 per cent has been enrolled and are accessing health insurance in the state.

Kaki assured that by 2027, the Agency will enroll 20 per cent of the total population of the state despite any economic challenge.

Pharm Kaki however stated that the agency is introducing out a new travel insurance package for travelers in the state.

He noted that one of the major challenges being faced by the agency is awareness creation and called on media practitioners in the state to synergize with the agency to attain its universal health coverage target.

The agency also said it was aware of the challenges health insurance beneficiaries face with service providers and promised to ensure adequate services are provided by service providers.

NASHIA appealed to all enrollee to notify the agency using the mobile number at the back of their card where services accessed are inadequate and also, where they are satisfied with services.