Cross River government to integrate HIV patients into health insurance scheme to mitigate shortfall in foreign aid
The Cross River State Government has announced plans to incorporate individuals living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) into the State’s Health Insurance Scheme owing to the significant impact of reduced foreign aid for the treatment of HIV patients in the state.
Dr. Charles Iwara, Director General of the Cross River State Agency for the Control of AIDS (CR-SACA), disclosed this plan during a review meeting in his office in Calabar, which had in attendance the Zonal Coordinator of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) South South and other stakeholders.
Iwara commended Governor Bassey Otu for revitalizing the health insurance scheme and approving the integration of HIV patients. He expressed gratitude as well to the Federal Government and NACA’s Director General, Dr. Temitope, for their visionary leadership in establishing a sustainable framework for response to HIV cases amidst challenging economic times which impacts funding.
“Today, we stand at a critical juncture where our actions will shape the future of healthcare for individuals living with HIV in our State. We are pleased that support has come through our Health Insurance Scheme,” he said passionately.
He highlighted the importance of accurately identifying and verifying people living with HIV (PLHIV) who would benefit from this integration, advocating for thorough processes to ensure that those who need it most receive comprehensive care without incurring direct costs.
The DG also used the occasion to commend Governor Otu for the recent renovations to the SACA office, viewing the improvements as a means to attract more partners to the state’s HIV response efforts.
“A vibrant and welcoming work environment enhances our ability to coordinate effectively and collaborate with partners dedicated to fighting HIV,” he noted and stressed how such infrastructure face lift can positively impact service delivery.
Earlier, the Zonal Coordinator of NACA South-South, Dr. Nnamso Thomas, who represented the Director General of NACA, Dr Timitope Ilori, reiterated Iwara’s sentiments, assuring him of the Federal Government’s support for the implementation of HIV activities in the State.
He praised the Cross River State Governor’s commitment to improving health outcomes and acknowledged the substantial efforts made to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality for the citizens.
While commending the State for this initiative, the Zonal Coordinator called for a collaborative strategy to solidify the integration of HIV patients into the State Health Insurance System as a pathway to sustainable health solutions.
Supported by representatives from health-based organizations like ECEWS, Heartland Alliance, and the Cross River Community Coalition on HIV/AIDS (CCCRN), the interface beckoned a unified commitment to the integration process and the importance of aligning with national health goals.
Discussions also addressed potential challenges in integrating HIV services into the insurance model, with participants sharing innovative ideas for overcoming barriers, including public awareness campaigns and strategies for ensuring continuous funding.
The meeting featured a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Primary Health Care Agency, the State Action Committee on AIDS (CRSSACA), the State Health Insurance Agency, people living with HIV, and various implementing partners. This broad representation underscored a shared commitment to enhancing health outcomes for those affected by the virus.
By: Archibong Emmanuel
(Snr. Reporter)
