From Pwanagba Agabus, Jos
Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State on Tuesday said the launching of ‘Plateau State Contributory Health Care Management Agency’ (PLASCHEMA) and the enrollment of citizens into the State Social Health Insurance scheme will help the state achieve Universal health coverage very soon.
The Governor also said the health scheme was one of his biggest campaign promises during the 2019 elections and expressed delight that the agency has come to reality.
Lalong stated during the Launch of PLASCHEMA and enrolment into the State Health Insurance Scheme, held at banquet hall of the new Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos.
According to him, “By this launch, we are equally commencing the enrolment of our citizens into the Plateau State Social Health Insurance Scheme.
“This is a great step towards achieving Universal Health Coverage in Plateau State which is in line with the Rescue Administration’s first pillar policy thrust of Peace, Security and Good Governance.
“It is our hope that the citizens of Plateau State will avail themselves of this unique opportunity to enroll and gain access to quality healthcare.
“This scheme is open for all Plateau residents in the formal and informal sectors together with their families”, he explained.
“The World Health Organisation acknowledges health as a fundamental human right and this administration believes firmly in this assertion. This is because only the healthy can participate in economic and social activities that contribute to the development of their communities.”
Earlier in his address,
Director General of
(PLASCHEMA) Dr Fabong Jemchang Yildam said the agency will partner will reputable organizations within and outside the state for the health and prosperity of the citizenry.
He noted that the agency will work to provide affordable health and quality health services for the people of the State.
Yildam said he has visited the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) with a view to partner in achieving Universal Health coverage in the State.
The Head of Civil Service, in the State, Mr. Izam Azi said the public sector was going to support the initiative in the interest of the state.
Azi noted that apart form prompt payment of salaries and other developmental strides, the Lalong administration has made history for initiating the State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency PLASCHEMA.
