Lagos Govt Reiterates Mandatory Health Insurance, Highlights Ilera Eko Benefits
The Lagos State Government has emphasized the necessity of health insurance for residents, asserting that it is crucial for achieving Universal Health Coverage in the region. This statement was made by the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, during an unannounced visit to the Shomolu General Hospital, where he inspected the construction of the new 150-bed Shomolu Specialist General Hospital.
During his visit, Abayomi interacted with patients and healthcare personnel about their experiences with health insurance. He highlighted the importance of residents comprehending how health insurance operates and the specific coverage offered by their plans.
Abayomi noted that the 2024 Executive Order, which localizes the National Health Insurance Authority Act of 2022, has made health insurance mandatory throughout Lagos State. The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), part of the Ministry of Health, oversees the state’s health insurance programs.
He pointed out that individuals without health insurance are required to cover out-of-pocket expenses for hospital registration, laboratory tests, admissions, medications, and other medical services, which can impose significant financial strain on families during emergencies.
The subsidized Ilera Eko plan, according to Abayomi, is priced at ₦15,000 annually, equivalent to approximately ₦1,250 per month for an individual. This plan includes various services, such as consultations with doctors, antenatal and childbirth care, treatment for common illnesses, management of chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes, laboratory tests, minor surgeries, specialist consultations, and up to 15 hospital days each year.
Abayomi attributed the affordability of the plan to risk pooling and substantial government support, noting that the unsubsidized cost would be around ₦100,000 per person annually. He also mentioned that other insurance options provide broader coverage, and unsubsidized private health insurance is available for corporate individuals.
While discussing the limitations of coverage, Abayomi clarified that residents may need to pay out of pocket for treatments that fall outside their insurance package or exceed annual limits. He urged residents to familiarize themselves with the terms and coverage limits of their health insurance before seeking treatment.
For non-corporate residents interested in enrolling in the Ilera Eko plan, Abayomi recommended visiting any LASHMA office, the health insurance desk at a Lagos State general hospital, or a 24-hour primary healthcare center. He also encouraged residents to share their insurance experiences and identify barriers to enrollment.
