Published By Yinka Aderibigbe
Its happy and healthier days for the people of Epe, as the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), berths in the aquatic Lagos suburb, with the inauguration of an ‘ILERA EKO’ office in the town, thus making it the third of such offices to be opened by the health agency in the last one month.
The office, is envisioned to ensure that residents in the Epe division have access to quality and affordable health care services.
Recall that LASHMA had earlier established similar offices at Ikorodu and Ikeja divisions respectively.
Speaking at the opening of the new office, on Thursday, LASHMA’s General Manager, Dr Emmanuella Zamba, urged residents of Epe and its environs to enroll for the Health Insurance plan.
The General Manager said the health scheme would enable residents in Epe not only to access prompt and cost effective healthcare, but to fund their healthcare needs.
She stressed that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is concerned about the well-being of Lagosians, and this is the reason why government established the agency to bring healthcare financing closer and at affordable rate to the people.
Represented by the Head of Business Development and Marketing, LASHMA, Mr. Olatunji Rotimi, Dr. Zamba listed the benefits of ILERA EKO Health plan to include outpatient care for common ailments and conditions such as malaria, management of uncomplicated chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and asthma.
Other benefits, the General Manager said, include the treatment of HIV and tuberculosis, minor surgeries such as incision drainage, herniorraphy, appendectomy, pharmaceutical care, health promotion and diseases prevention.
In her words, “the annual payment of N40, 000 covers a family of six – father, mother with four children below 18 years – and this premium, automatically grants them access to a full year uninterrupted healthcare in any hospital of their choice. An individual according to her, can also enjoy the same benefits with N8, 500 annually, at any hospital of his or her choice, under ILERA EKO Health plan.”
She, however, noted that children that are 18 years and above would have to register under the individual plan.
Zamba also disclosed that the Health insurance plan, has made provision for a quarterly installment policy for unions, groups and associations, scheduled to take off by the 4th quarter of the year.
According to her; “the benefits for all subscribers are enormous, they would upon enrolment have access to quality treatment for medical challenges without devoid of financial constraints.”
She enjoined everyone to ensure that their preferred healthcare facility should remain close to their domain. She highlighted the benefits to be ease and prompt access to health facilities especially during emergency cases.
The General Manager also revealed that “ILERA EKO ” enrollee, can also call or consult a Medical Doctor via audio or video calls to the toll- free line 0700ILERAEKO or 0800EKOMED from the comfort of their homes.
“LASHMA has registration points and enrollment officers in various Local Governments (LGs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state. You can walk in freely to register or for your convenience, you can visit LASHMA website –lashma.com or www.lashma.lagosstate.gov.ng
In his remark, LASHMA Board representative, Dr. Eniola Erinosho, commended the efforts of the Agency, saying it is a testimony to its commitment to the realisation of the current administration’s Greater Lagos agenda.
The Olu of Epe kingdom, HRM Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale, represented by High Chief Odede Ogunro, thanked the Agency for extending the Health insurance plan to Epe.
Similarly, the Oloja of Epe, Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun, represented by High Chief Adebayo Adekore, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his determination and commitment towards the provision of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the state, noting that the Health insurance plan will provide opportunities for residents to be conscious of their health.
The Chief Imam, Epe Central Mosque, Alhaji Sahadalau Abiola Aliu, in his response, appreciates the Sanwo-Olu administration for making the well-being of the people a topmost priority.
The event also had in attendance the Chairman, Epe Local Government, Princess Sarah Oluyemi Animashaun, Council Manager, Mr. Segun Bankole, Medical Director of Health (MOH), Epe Local Government Area, Dr. Aiyeola Nurain, Provost, Micheal Otedola College of Primary Education (MOCPED), Dr. Nosiru Onibon, represented by the Deputy Provost, Dr. Morufudeen Shittu, Epe Local Government Legislative House Leader, Hon Kareem Pitan and Iyaloja of Epe, Alhaja Abeni Lejonwe, among others.