DTSG Boosts Equity Plan For Pregnant Women, Children Under Five Years

BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU

TO enhance healthcare coverage for pregnant women and children under five years of age, the Delta State Government has released funds to boost the Equity Plan initiative, ensuring that these vulnerable groups have access to essential medical services.

The Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, confirmed this when 1,000 Ibusa indigenes registered for the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative (IEAI), yesterday.

Akpoveta expressed gratitude to the state government for its commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for the less privileged.

“The release of this significant funding demonstrates the government’s dedication to achieving universal health cov­erage for all Deltans, particularly those who cannot afford healthcare services. Pregnant women and children under five are among the most vulnerable in our society, and this initiative ensures they receive the care they need,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Akpoveta applauded the remarkable generos­ity of the Obinwaokocha Okeze Foundation, initiated by Pas­tor Idowu Okeze, for setting a shining example by adopting and purchasing health insurance cards for 1,000 vulnerable individuals in their community, responding to the clarion call of the Delta State Health Commission for goodwill from all.

“This initiative is not merely an act of charity; it is a pro­found demonstration of empathy and a tangible commitment to the well-being of our people. The indigenous initiative pioneered by the Commission aims to ensure that every resident, regardless of socio-economic status, has access to quality healthcare. It is delightful to see the spirit of solidar­ity and community support exemplified by this foundation”.

“Healthcare should not be a luxury reserved for the privileged few; it is a fundamental human right that must be guaranteed for all. By stepping forward to adopt and pur­chase health insurance for the vulnerable members of your community, this foundation has demonstrated a profound understanding of this principle, showing us the power of collective action in creating positive change”.

Akpoveta highlighted that the initiative allows well-meaning individuals and organizations to sponsor health insurance premiums for indigent persons to complement the government’s efforts to achieve universal health coverage in the state, while urging other communities and stakeholders to support the commission’s programs and initiatives, em­phasizing that collective efforts are vital for the success of universal health coverage.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman DSCHC Dr. Austin Obidi commended the sponsor for his generosity noting that more of such people are needed to turn the around the fortunes of the community. He urged beneficiaries to pray for the sponsor adding that his gesture was admirable.

In the same light, the Chief Medical Director of Ibusa general hospital, Dr. Emmanuel Ebom assured the enrolled beneficiaries that him and his team will ensure that every patient is attended to without any extra cost, as long as they are all registered.

In his remarks, Pst. Idowu Okeze, the sponsor of the en­rollees, commended the Commission for its dedication to promoting and providing quality healthcare to vulnerable individuals at an affordable cost.