Chinedum Elekwachi
A U.S-based medical support group, Dr Odiraa Nwankwor Support Group enrolled 145 indigenes of Nanka community in Orumba North local government area of Anambra State into the State Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIA).
He spoke at the ceremony held at Chief Patrick Nwankwor’s compound, Umuduni-Agbiligba, founder of the group.
Dr Odiraa Nwankwor, emphasized the importance of affordable healthcare for the people of Nanka community.
He noted that regular health checkups and timely medical intervention can prevent or detect illnesses before they become severe.
“The initiative was carried out using the adoption model, which allows individuals or groups to pay the annual health insurance premiums on behalf of others.
“This move grant them access to affordable and quality healthcare services.
“This model aligns with the vision of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to improve health insurance coverage across the 179 communities that constitute the state.
“Now, our people have no excuse not to access quality healthcare at hospitals. I want to eradicate the culture of self-medication.
“If you are unwell, visit the hospital for professional treatment.
“This is why we are taking proactive steps to ensure our people get the care they deserve.
“Also we are doing this to encouraged other well-to-do individuals or groups to key into the agenda of the present administration,” he said.
Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, sensitised the beneficiaries on the benefits of the health insurance scheme.
He explained that the scheme was designed to significantly reduce the burden of hospital bills while ensuring access to high-quality treatment.
The ASHIA boss urged beneficiaries to make good use of their chosen healthcare facilities.
“Health insurance is a cost-effective way to access professional healthcare.
“I encourage enrollees to visit their selected hospitals for treatment and avoid delays in seeking medical attention,” he said.
On his part, President-General of the town, Rev Canon John Ifeanyichukwu commended Nwankwor.
He described him as an industrious son of the community who is dedication to improving the lives of his people.
He described the gesture as part of his dream to ensure that even the less privileged in the community could access quality healthcare without financial strain.
“This gesture is a reflection of Nwankwor’s commitment to his people.
“He wants the indigent and vulnerable to enjoy access to good healthcare at little or no cost.
“I urge beneficiaries to safeguard their ID cards and use them appropriately to access the healthcare services provided,” he ssid.
Some of the beneficiaries including Sunday Okeke and Christiana Ezenwo expressed appreciation for the gesture, which they described as life-changing.
They thanked the founder, Nwankwor for his generosity and foresight in prioritizing healthcare in Nanka community.
“This free healthcare services is a blessing to many families, including ours.
“The high cost of hospital bills has been a major challenge, but with this enrollment, we can now access quality care without worry,” they stated
The ceremony was also attended by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Ben Obidike.
The traditional ruler of the town, Igwe Godwin Ezeilo and other community leaders were also in attendance.
