In response to the stark revelation that only 4% of Imolites are covered by health insurance, the Centre for Social Awareness, Advocacy and Ethics (CSAAE) took a proactive step by organizing an impactful webinar titled: Bridging Gaps: Access to Health Insurance for Imolites.
The webinar, aimed at raising awareness about health insurance accessibility, featured distinguished panelists including Rev. Fr. Dr. Godswill Agbagwa, Executive Director of CSAAE, Dr. Uchenna Ewelike, Executive Secretary of IMSHIA, and Chimezie Ezennabike, NHIA State Coordinator.
Participants of the webinar comprised a diverse audience ranging from Nigerians in Diaspora to members of the organized private sector, employers of labor, and the general public.
Key topics discussed during the event included the existing gaps in service provision for enrollees, challenges such as drug unavailability, and ongoing efforts to mandate employers to provide health insurance for their employees. Additionally, insights were shared on who can access GIFSHIP (Group, Individual, Family Social Health Insurance Program) and the program’s impact in Imo State.
The webinar emphasized the overarching benefits of health insurance coverage while also shedding light on aspects not typically covered and the reasons behind their exclusion. As a result of the collaborative efforts between CSAAE, IMSHIA, and NHIA, recommendations were made for increased awareness campaigns in rural communities and enhanced collaboration to further extend the reach of health insurance access in Imo State.
By fostering partnerships and amplifying awareness initiatives, CSAAE is playing a pivotal role in empowering Imolites with the knowledge and resources necessary to secure their health and well-being through comprehensive insurance coverage.
Watch the webinar here
