The Edo State Government’s registration of pensioners into its health insurance scheme for free medicare services entered its second day, Tuesday, January 16 at the sprawling Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub on Airport Road in Benin City, the state capital.
Under the arrangement which is a charitable consideration by the Edo State Government, the pensioners will get free medicare, which means they do not have to make any payments or remittances for services rendered.
Teeming pensioners turned up to be enrolled, some escorted by younger family members.
They sat in an airconditioned hall during the short wait leading up to their documentation and were offered drinks of water for refreshment.
Many of the pensioners re-united with long-time friends and acquaintances with whom they exchanged banters in good cheer at the venue.
The pensioners came from the seven local government areas of Edo South Senatorial District for the exercise which was conducted by officials of the Edo Health Insurance Scheme (EDOHIS).
This free healthcare offering to pensioners by the Edo State Government is calculated to contribute to their physical wellbeing and avail them financial reliefs as they can henceforth access cheap and affordable healthcare without financial stress.
The Edo State Health Insurance Scheme for Pensioners offers a wide range of medical services, from routine check-ups to specialised treatment, ensuring that retirees have access to holistic healthcare.
Recognising the financial constraints faced by pensioners, the scheme is designed to be accessible, with no financial involvement on the side of the pensioners. This allows retired individuals to access quality healthcare without undue financial constraints.
The scheme emphasises ease of access, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks for pensioners seeking medical assistance. This streamlined approach ensures that retirees can promptly access the care they need.
The state has partnered with a network of healthcare providers to deliver services under the scheme. This collaboration ensures that pensioners receive quality healthcare from accredited professionals and facilities.
In addition to curative services, the scheme places emphasis on preventive healthcare. Regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and awareness programs are integral components, promoting a proactive approach to well-being.
Recognising the unique health needs of pensioners, the scheme incorporates wellness programs focusing on nutrition, physical fitness, and mental health. These initiatives aim to enhance the overall quality of life for retirees.
The scheme utilises modern technology to facilitate efficient service delivery. Digital platforms enable pensioners to manage their health records, schedule appointments and access relevant information seamlessly.
The Health Insurance Scheme provides pensioners with financial security, sparing them from unexpected healthcare expenses and allowing them to allocate their funds for other essential needs.
With comprehensive coverage and a simplified process, pensioners can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that their health needs are taken care of by the state.
The scheme fosters a sense of community support among pensioners, creating a network of individuals who share similar health-related experiences and concerns.
Edo State’s Health Insurance Scheme for Pensioners stands as a commendable model for prioritising the well-being of retirees. By addressing their unique healthcare needs, the state fulfills its commitment to social welfare and ensures that its senior citizens lead fulfilling and healthy lives.
Several of the pensioners were full of praise for Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, for enrolling them into the free healthcare scheme. They say this proves that Governor Obaseki cares about the people, especially the senior citizens, many of whom cannot afford proper healthcare due to the financial constraints.
A pensioner, Mrs Patience Omoregie Ugiagbe, who spoke to The Nigerian Observer, commended the state government for the free healthcare initiative. Ugiagbe further appreciated the governor for paying their pensions regularly as at when due.
Governor Obaseki had declared in December 2023, that the government would be providing N1bn to cover the free health insurance service for pensioners and vigilantes of Edo State, while ensuring affordable and quality healthcare services in mitigating the out-of-pocket spending of the beneficiaries of the free health insurance scheme, thereby promoting a healthier and more secure future.
