By Ovat Abeng
A United State -based medical doctor and a philanthropist, Dr Odiraa Nwankwor, has enrolled one hundred and forty five indigenes of Nanka community in Orumba North local government area of Anambra State into the State Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIA).
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, granting them access to affordable and quality healthcare services. This model aligns with the vision of Gov. Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s administration to improve health insurance coverage across the 179 communities that constitute the State.
Speaking during the enrollment ceremony that took place at Chief Patrick Nwankwor’s compound, Umuduni-Agbiligba, on Friday, Dr Nwankwor, emphasized the importance of affordable healthcare for the people of Nanka community, noting that regular health checkups and timely medical intervention can prevent or detect illnesses before they become severe.
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“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 I am doing this to encouraged other well-to-do individuals or groups to key into what the present administration of governor Soludo is embarking upon to improve the state health sector
The Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, sensitized the beneficiaries on the benefits of the health insurance scheme, explaining that the scheme is 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, adding, “Health insurance is a cost-effective way to access professional healthcare. I encourage all enrollees to visit their selected hospitals for treatment and avoid delays in seeking medical attention.”
On his part, the President General of the.town, Rev Canon John Ifeanyichukwu, commended Dr Nwankwor who is also an industrious son of the community for his dedication to improving the lives of his people, describing the gesture as part of his dream to ensure that even the less privileged in the community can 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 all beneficiaries to safeguard their ID cards and use them appropriately to access the healthcare services provided,” the PG advised.
Some of the newly enrolled members including Mr Sunday Okeke and Mrs Christiana Ezenwo expressed appreciation for the gesture, which they described as life-changing, thanking the group particularly, the founder, Dr 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 worrying about finances,” the beneficiaries stated
The event was also attended by the State Commissioner for Health Dr Afam Ben Obidike, the Traditional ruler of the town, Igwe Godwin Ezeilo, among other community leaders.
