Lagos State has successfully enrolled over 1.3 million residents in its ILERA EKO health insurance scheme over the past nine years, significantly advancing its goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The initiative, which is a cornerstone of the Lagos State Health Scheme Law enacted in 2015, aims to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage to all residents of the state.
Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), highlighted the state’s commitment to UHC during a media parley marking the 2024 UHC Day. She emphasized that the ILERA EKO scheme is a key step toward ensuring healthcare becomes a fundamental right for all residents, not a privilege.
“Universal Health Coverage is not just a global ideal; it is a fundamental human right,” Dr. Zamba stated, underscoring the importance of investing in healthcare to strengthen society and enhance national resilience.
Leveraging Technology and Partnerships for Growth
The ILERA EKO scheme has expanded its benefits package to meet the evolving healthcare needs of Lagosians. Dr. Zamba also emphasized the government’s dedication to simplifying the enrollment process, with plans to leverage technology and expand the healthcare provider network across the state.
A key initiative in expanding access is the partnership between LASHMA and the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA), which allows residents to register for the health scheme at any of LASRRA’s 62 outlets statewide. Additionally, a “Drug Access Expansion” program launched in April 2024 enables enrollees to access prescribed medications at over 300 community pharmacies, further enhancing healthcare access and continuity of care.
Mandating Enrollment for All Residents
The Lagos State government has taken further steps to make health insurance mandatory for all residents through an Executive Order, which aligns with the National Health Insurance Authority Act of 2022. The move solidifies the state’s commitment to ensuring that all Lagosians benefit from the ILERA EKO scheme. Mrs. Adetoro Tayo-Adetoro, Head of Planning, Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation at LASHMA, emphasized that this mandatory enrollment aims to ensure no one is left behind in the pursuit of health equity.
The ILERA EKO scheme also includes the Eko Social Health Alliance (EKOSHA), which provides free or subsidized healthcare for vulnerable groups, ensuring that underserved populations have access to essential health services.
A Call to Action
As Lagos State marks UHC Day 2024, the government remains focused on continuing its efforts to enhance public awareness and compliance with the mandatory enrollment policy. The ILERA EKO scheme represents a significant step toward building a healthier Lagos, and the state’s leaders are committed to ensuring that all residents benefit from the ongoing healthcare transformation.
