The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has convened a crucial stakeholders’ engagement in Ajeromi Local Government Area, Health District V, underscoring the importance of prioritising health among enrollees of the EKO Social Health Alliance (EKOSHA) and the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, passionately addressed the vulnerable beneficiaries, emphasising that robust health is foundational to a productive life. “Illness offers no warning,” she stated, advocating for preventive healthcare measures to enable early detection and timely intervention.
Dr. Zamba highlighted the convenience and accessibility of ILERA EKO’s telemedicine service, urging enrollees to utilise the toll-free line – 080000-EKO-VBT (080000-356828) – for remote consultations in Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, or English. Upon verification, prescriptions will be relayed to their phones, enabling medication pickup at nearby community pharmacies.
For any challenges encountered at healthcare facilities, Dr. Zamba provided round-the-clock LASHMA customer service lines: 0800-ILERAEKO (0800-45372-356) and 0800-ASKLASHMA (0800-2755-27462), along with WhatsApp support at 07045358275 and 07046160051.
While commending hospitals delivering excellent care, the Permanent Secretary warned facilities with subpar customer service, cautioning them against risking sanctions.
Dr. Oladapo Ashiyanbi, Permanent Secretary for Health District V, lauded Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to equitable healthcare access for vulnerable populations within the district. He also acknowledged LASHMA’s proactive engagement in addressing enrollees’ challenges.
Echoing this sentiment, His Royal Majesty, the Onijanikin of Ijanikin, Oba Momodu Ashafa, represented by Queen Esther Ashafa, championed ILERA EKO as a universally beneficial state government initiative. He urged all residents to enroll in the health insurance plan, citing its proven advantages.
The Baale of Ijagun Ijanikin, Chief Ganiyu Monsuru, cautioned against self-medication and encouraged residents to register for ILERA EKO to access proper hospital care. He also advised enrollees to be patient at healthcare facilities and adhere strictly to medical guidance.
Mrs. Rita Chuckwu, State Coordinator of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), represented by the Assistant Director, Mr. George Johnson, expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for implementing the BHCPF and ensuring quality care for federal beneficiaries.
Impressed by positive enrollee testimonials, the NHIA pledged continued collaboration with LASHMA.
Dr. Ashiyanbi further appealed to vulnerable residents to leverage the ILERA EKO opportunity for healthier lives and reduced out-of-pocket medical expenses.
This engagement underscores LASHMA’s commitment to ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for all Lagos residents, particularly the most vulnerable.
