By Okechukwu Onuegbu
A veteran Journalist and Igbo culture activist Ogbuefi Dr. Chuma-Odili Harris Udokamma, has announced his readiness to sponsor and absorb over hundreds indigent persons in Ogbunike, Oyi LGA into the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme.
Chuma-Odili, alias Ogene, who disclosed this on Thursday, while flagging off the Ogene Ogbunike Free Medical Outreach program, said he was elected to sponsor some indigenes to access the Anambra state Health Insurance Scheme, because of the urgent need for a comprehensive health scheme.
"I have therefore decided to launch a groundbreaking health scheme aimed at enhancing the welfare of hundreds of indigent people in Ogbunike my hometown. This transformative initiative will provide free health insurance coverage to eligible residents, thereby ensuring access to quality healthcare services.
"In response to the pressing healthcare needs of the community, Ogene Ogbunike has been actively working to address the challenges faced by ndi Ogbunike. After conducting comprehensive research and gathering insights from various stakeholders, he devised a visionary plan to launch a health scheme that would alleviate the burden of healthcare expenses for vulnerable individuals and families in Ogbunike," he noted.
The Coordinator of Ogene Ogbunike Sponsored Health Insurance Scheme, Mr Kenechukwu Nwanne who works with Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) said with N12,500, anyone could purchase health insurance for indigent persons around them to access quality healthcare in any hospital of their choice throughout the year.
"Over 100 persons in Ogbunike will be sponsored by Ogene Ogbunike and registered in the Anambra state Health Insurance Scheme. The Prof Chukwuma Charles Soludo's led government has made remarkable progress in fulfilling its mandate, especially with the implementation of various programmes, which has helped increase healthcare coverage and health outcomes of the people.
"The implementation of the health scheme is expected to yield a multitude of benefits by alleviating the financial burden of healthcare expenses, individuals and families will have increased access to preventative care, diagnostic services, and treatments, leading to improved overall health outcomes within the community," he noted.
Beneficiaries of the first edition of the Ogene Ogbunike health scheme will be drawn across Six villages in Ogbunike. The Ogene Ogbunike Medical Outreach Program is being organized by Ogbuefi Pharm Kene Ikeche CEO, WHITECARE PHARMACEUTICALS NIG LTD.
The impending launch of the health scheme by Ogene Ogbunike is a testament to his commitment to the welfare and well-being of the people of Ogbunike. The provision of free health insurance coverage for indigenes exemplifies a progressive and compassionate approach to health care.