By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
The Director-General of Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (PLASCHEMA), Dr. Agabus Manesseh, has unveiled significant progress in healthcare accessibility, with over 277,862 beneficiaries enrolled in the social health insurance scheme since its establishment in 2019.
Speaking at a media interface focused on “Media, a Tool for Sustainability and Development,” Dr. Manesseh emphasized the agency’s aim to achieve universal health coverage by 2030 through a comprehensive five-year strategic plan.
He stated, “Our primary goal is to ensure that every individual in Plateau State, regardless of socio-economic status, can access quality and affordable healthcare services.”
He highlighted that the significant number of enrollees reflects the agency’s commitment to advancing universal health coverage in the state.
“Of the total beneficiaries, 124,000 originate from the formal sector, which encompasses employees and their dependents. Additionally, 8,342 beneficiaries are enlisted from the informal sector, and we have extended coverage to 145, 000 through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund.” He noted
He also outlined the strategic expansion of healthcare infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of beneficiaries, accrediting a network of healthcare facilities including pharmacies, laboratories, primary healthcare centers, and secondary facilities.
Dr. Manesseh acknowledged challenges such as delays in payment remittances, lack of operational vehicles, and the need for legislative reviews to enhance premium contributions.
However, amidst challenges, he emphasized significant accomplishments, including clearing payment backlogs and securing government support. He cited the approval of counterpart funds amounting to 327 million naira by His Excellency, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, to enhance healthcare access for the poor and vulnerable.
In discussing the role of the media in promoting sustainability and development, Dr. Manesseh emphasized its importance in promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in healthcare delivery.
He encouraged media partners to provide constructive feedback and emphasized the media’s potential to shape public perception and policy discourse.
Dr. Manesseh, further, expressed the agency’s commitment to working with the media as a crucial stakeholder in advancing universal health coverage.
Earlier, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Chapter, Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, commended PLASCHEMA for recognizing the pivotal role of media practitioners in promoting and sensitizing the public about the importance of healthcare plans.
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