BENIN CITY — In a renewed effort to improve access to healthcare for vulnerable children, the Edo State Government has commenced the enrollment of orphans and indigent children into the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme (EDOHIS).
The initiative, spearheaded by the Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDOHIC), targets children suffering from malnutrition and those unable to afford medical care. As part of the statewide outreach, members of the Commission visited orphanage homes and government health facilities across the three senatorial districts, providing free healthcare support and facilitating the enrollment process.
Leading the outreach, Director General of EDOHIC, Mrs. Augusta Ikpea-Enaholo, emphasized the state government’s commitment to inclusive healthcare. She described the initiative as part of a broader vision to ensure that no child is left behind, especially those in marginalized communities.
“This outreach is a demonstration of the government’s resolve to improve child health and protect our most vulnerable through access to quality, affordable healthcare,” she said.
Owners of orphanage homes, caregivers, and families of beneficiaries expressed gratitude to Governor Monday Okpebholo and the EDOHIC team for the timely intervention. Many noted that the payment of outstanding hospital bills brought much-needed relief to struggling families.
The outreach, which coincided with the celebration of Children’s Day, further underscores the government’s prioritization of child welfare and social protection. It also highlights the crucial role of health insurance in safeguarding the future of disadvantaged children.
Stakeholders have called on well-meaning individuals, organizations, and development partners to support the state’s efforts in extending healthcare coverage to more children in need.
