LASHMA Seeks Collaboration for Health Insurance Implementation
Introduction
The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has initiated discussions with Permanent Secretaries in the Lagos State Public Service to facilitate the implementation of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act and the Executive Order issued by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. This collaboration aims to enhance healthcare access, boost enrolment in ILERA EKO, improve healthcare quality, and rebuild public trust in the health insurance scheme.
Mandatory Health Insurance
Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, the Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, emphasized the significance of the NHIA Act, which made Social Health Insurance mandatory for all Nigerian residents since its enactment in May 2022. This legal framework strengthens the Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS) Law of 2015, making health insurance compulsory for all Lagos State residents.
Upholding Universal Health Coverage
Dr. Zamba reiterated LASHMA’s commitment to utilizing its regulatory authority to uphold the requirements of the LSHS, with a clear goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the state. Implementing the Executive Order and domesticating the NHIA Act aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision for healthcare as part of his T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.
Saving Lives Through Collaboration
Dr. Zamba called upon the support of top officials in various government departments and agencies, stressing that their involvement could save numerous lives. She highlighted the importance of contributing resources to ensure UHC in Lagos State and encouraged Permanent Secretaries to ensure their staff are enrolled in ILERA EKO and utilize its facilities when needed.
Enhancing Access to Care
The Permanent Secretaries were urged to facilitate the enrolment of their staff on ILERA EKO and encourage them to utilize healthcare services when required. Dr. Zamba emphasized the importance of not only registering but also accessing healthcare through the platform.
Customer Service and Corporate Verification
In addition to the enrollment process, LASHMA provided contact details for customer service, urging enrollees to seek assistance when facing challenges. Dr. Zamba also advised Permanent Secretaries to request the Corporate Identification Number (CIN) of corporate organizations seeking business with their departments and verify these numbers.
Executive Order and Mandatory Enrolment
Mr. Tosin Awosika, Coordinator of Regulations at LASHMA, explained that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Executive Order aimed to ensure compliance with the LSHS and the NHIA Act, guaranteeing residents access to quality and affordable healthcare services. Enrolment in ILERA EKO is now compulsory, and public healthcare facilities must confirm active enrolment before providing medical care.
HMO Responsibility
Mr. Awosika emphasized that Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) in the state must ensure that their clients are enrolled in ILERA EKO Health plans before offering supplementary or complementary health insurance plans. This measure is designed to enhance healthcare access and accountability.
Benefit Package and Verification
During the seminar, the Permanent Secretaries received information on the ILERA EKO Benefit package and the verification procedures for active enrolment on ILERA EKO, which can be done through the LASHMA USSD Code or the official website.