Two international agencies, the United Nations Children’s Fund and the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunisation (GAVI) in collaboration with the Bayelsa State government, have provided health insurance for 10,000 vulnerable children, pregnant women and women of child bearing age in Bayelsa State.
The GAVI/UNICEF Bayelsa Health Insurance Scheme with the theme, ‘Expanding Health Insurance Coverage Through Partnership’, was launched yesterday at the Health Insurance House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital.
The launch was attended by stakeholders in the health sector including representatives from World Health Organisation, Clinton Health Access Initiatives, Bayelsa State Primary Health Development Board, National Health Insurance Authority and Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Anslem Audu, Chief Field Office, UNICEF, Port Harcourt, said the health insurance for 10,000 vulnerable persons symbolised substantial leap forward in their collective efforts to ensure that the most vulnerable have access to essential health care services which are fundamental to their well-being and development.
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Audu said the initiative would not only provide critical medical care but also bring hope and security to countless families across the state.
He stated: “UNICEF, in collaboration with Bayelsa State government, healthcare providers and dedicated partners, has always prioritised the health and the welfare of children and women.
“Healthcare is a basic human right, and no child or woman should ever be deprived of it due to financial constraints. The introduction of this health insurance programme will relieve families of the burden of medical expenses, allowing them to seek timely and adequate healthcare without fear or hesitation.”