Ikpi Eteng Ubi
Let me start with a brief history of NHIS. NHIS was founded by decree 35 of the 1999 constitution in 1999. However, this scheme was not functional until after 6 years. It became operational 6 June 2005 and enrollees used the scheme. The purpose of this scheme was to attain UHC (universal health coverage).
Back to business, Hon. Oden Ewa saw that the health of his people needs health coverage, to give free access to health care.
The meaning of Oden Ewa health insurance is to give free medical care to the poor, vulnerable constituents who can’t afford health care without support. He mentioned 20 health conditions he will handle, this means the health insurance agency will be taking care of 20 kinds of diseases and illnesses. The ₦18m he used to enroll the 1500 people will be used for the treatment of their diseases and illnesses for 1 year.
Why the kind gesture of Hon. Oden Ewa is the best is: it deals directly with the health of the poor and vulnerable.
According to WHO, health is a state of complete physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being of an individual, not merely in the absence of diseases and infirmities. This means if you are physically healthy and you have a social problem you are not still healthy until those four are there. Some individuals are physically and mentally healthy but is still not a complete state because the social aspect is there, social aspect of health deals with your interaction with people and the financial aspects of life.
You may be sick but no money to treat yourself, this is where Hon. Oden Ewa comes in. Hon. Oden Ewa is a man who understands the meaning of health, the importance of individuals to live healthier.
I commend Commissioner Oden Ewa’s gesture, as a Nurse I understand what it takes to pay for the treatments of patients for 1 year.
