Enugu extends health insurance to traders

Enugu State Agency for Universal Health Coverage (ESA-UHC) is extending its health insurance scheme to traders, marking a significant step in providing accessible healthcare to this often-neglected population. The agency has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Union of Market Traders Employers of Nigeria to implement the plan.

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Instead of paying huge amounts out-of-pocket whenever they fall sick, registered traders will pay an annual premium of N12,000 per person and have access to a comprehensive healthcare package that costs much more than the premium.

Under the agreement, traders will pay an annual premium of N12,000. This fee, collected by the union as part of regular dues, grants access to a comprehensive healthcare package. ESA-UHC CEO Edith Okolo emphasized that this scheme prevents traders from facing large out-of-pocket expenses during illness, offering a much more cost-effective solution.

Okolo highlighted the state government's commitment to market traders, stating, "We are saying to them that they are no longer forgotten or neglected." The partnership aims to bring healthcare directly to their "doorsteps." The scheme is also designed to potentially cover family members, recognizing the interconnectedness of traders and their households.

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We are saying to them that they are no longer forgotten or neglected.

ESA-UHC has established a 24-hour control room and a toll-free line for beneficiaries to report any issues. The agency also conducts quarterly training for accredited healthcare providers to ensure quality service and respectful treatment of patients. Enrollees will have the flexibility to choose their preferred accredited healthcare provider, rather than being assigned to a specific facility.

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The choice belongs to the benef