Abia State Health Insurance Agency

**Abia State Health Insurance Agency Commences massive registration of Schoolchildren for Health Insurance Scheme**

The Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) has officially commenced the registration of pupils and students in public primary and secondary schools across all 17 Local Government Areas of the state. This initiative aims to provide free medical services to children not only during the academic year but also throughout school holidays.

The registration process which has begun from the schools located at Abia South Senatorial Zone represents a significant step forward in the state government's commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of children while enhancing positive educational outcomes.

By enrolling in this program, parents and guardians can rest assured that their children and wards will have access to quality medical care in the event of emergencies without the burden of out of pocket payments.

This groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind in Nigeria, was made possible through the generous allocation of funds by Governor Alex Otti, ensuring that all medical expenses for enrolled children are covered. This move highlights the government's dedication to prioritizing the health and welfare of its citizens, particularly the vulnerable population of school-aged children.

Reacting to this laudable development, several school heads including Mrs. Lazarus Victoria Nkechi of Akpaa Mbato Community School 1 and Mrs. Onwere Ihuoma Chituru of Ovom Ama Asaa community School all in Obingwa LGA. extolled Governor Otti for his commitment to the welfare of Abians and expressed their readiness to provide the necessary support to ensure the success of the registration process.

The Abia State Health Insurance Scheme remains poised to make a lasting impacts on the health landscape for all Abians and residents, reflecting a proactive approach to public health and education.

**ABIA STATE HEALTH INSURANCE AGENCY (ABSHIA) CONDUCTS TRAINING FOR OFFICERS-IN-CHARGE ON BHCPF/SVG-SHIP IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES**

In anticipation of the upcoming large-scale enrollment of students in public primary and secondary schools into the state health insurance scheme, the Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) has organized orientation seminars for Officers-in-Charge (OICs) from healthcare facilities across all 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs) participating in the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund Scheme (BHCPF) and the Students Vulnerable Group Social Health Insurance Program (SVG-SHIP).

Dr. Chidoziem Egwuonwu, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of ABSHIA, in his opening remarks emphasized the critical importance of the National Identification Number (NIN) as a prerequisite for accessing free healthcare services at both federal and state levels.

Dr. Egwuonwu who made this statement at the one-day orientation meeting held separately for each of the three Senatorial Zones in the State at Harriett Hotels in Umuahia explained that the primary objective of the meeting was to educate and train the OICs on the processes and procedures involved in managing ABSHIA projects effectively.

He expressed concern that, out of the 68,760 Abians currently enrolled in the ABSHIA basic care provision program, only 22,269 possess a NIN. He urged all Abians, including their children, to register for and obtain their NIN, highlighting that it is essential for accessing any government initiatives.

He also announced that Governor Alex Otti has approved and released funds for the expansion of the Students Vulnerable Group Health Insurance Program for schoolchildren, following the successful pilot phase conducted last year in select schools.

The State Health Insurance boss revealed that extensive registration will commence in all public primary and secondary schools across the state starting on the 3rd of next month, enabling Abia children in public schools to access free medical services from nearby primary health facilities.

In her presentation, Ijeoma Uruakpa, Head of Programs at ABSHIA, provided an overview of the agency's initiatives and recent performance. She reiterated the agency's vision to become a world-class organization delivering affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare to all Abians, and called for collaborative efforts from healthcare providers.

Dr. Ogechi Ebisike-Amaechi, Head of Standard Quality Assurance, addressed the topics of referrals, claims submission, reimbursement, and timelines. She urged OICs to promptly refer emergency cases or conditions beyond their scope of care to ensure timely intervention and prevent loss of life.

Mr. Ikechukwu Jesse, Head of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), underscored the significance of accurate data reporting and monitoring in the effective implementation of health care programs.

In a vote of thanks, the OIC Igbere PHC Bende LGA, Mrs. Fechi Ujah, expressed gratitude to the State Government and ABSHIA for initiating the program for public primary and secondary school children describing it as the first of its kind and promised on behalf of other OICs to ensure that the program succeeds.

The seminar concluded with an interactive session, allowing all participants to engage in discussions and share insights on the topics covered.

Udensi Ndubuisi
PRO /Head of Media
ABSHIA

**ABIA STATE HEALTH INSURANCE AGENCY TO LAUNCH MASS ENROLLMENT FOR STUDENTS IN PUBLIC PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS**

The Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) is poised to commence a comprehensive enrollment exercise for pupils and students in all public primary and secondary schools across the 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state. This initiative aims to register students under the Students Vulnerable Groups Social Health Insurance Program (SVG-SHIP), enabling them to access primary and secondary healthcare services at no cost to their parents or guardians.

Dr. Chidoziem Egwuonwu, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of ABSHIA, announced this development during a recent radio interview with the Broadcasting Corporation of Abia (BCA). He emphasized that this initiative aligns with the earlier directive of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, which mandates that all school-age children be enrolled in school. The program is designed to enhance school attendance and academic performance by addressing health-related barriers to education, ensuring that all students, regardless of their socio-economic status, can access essential health services without financial burden.

"The Abia State Students Vulnerable Group Social Health Insurance Program for primary and secondary schools represents a significant advancement in ensuring equitable access to healthcare for vulnerable children," Dr. Egwuonwu stated. "By providing essential health coverage, this program has the potential to improve both health outcomes and educational success. It is imperative that stakeholders collaborate to support and strengthen this initiative, thereby fostering a healthier future for the children of Abia."

Dr. Egwuonwu further revealed that the agency had previously conducted a six-month pilot program, successfully registering approximately 17,000 students from various public primary and secondary schools across the 17 LGAs. This pilot was instrumental in assessing the program's impact and sustainability, and the results were promising.

He explained that all registered children will be linked to the Primary Health Centers nearest to their respective schools and the program will be funded through a 'fee-for-service' payment model, as opposed to the traditional capitation disbursement method.

Dr. Egwuonwu used the opportunity to express his gratitude to His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, for his commitment to the welfare of Abians and his political will in releasing sufficient funds to ensure the program's success.

The State health insurance boss urged all stakeholders—including Mayors of LGAs, traditional rulers, the State Ministry of Basic Education, government officials, policymakers, educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders—to support this initiative, ensuring that every child in Abia State has access to the quality healthcare they deserve.

**Udensi Ndubuisi**
**PRO/Head of Media**
**ABSHIA**

*Empowering Abia State's Rural Communities: ABSHIA's BHCPF-NIN Enrollment Drive*

The Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) is making waves in the healthcare sector by spearheading a comprehensive enrollment drive for Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) beneficiaries with National Identity Numbers (NIN) – with a special focus on rural areas.

This groundbreaking initiative is a game-changer for the people of Abia State, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations have access to quality healthcare services. By linking BHCPF beneficiaries with NIN, ABSHIA is bridging the gap in healthcare inequality and empowering citizens to take charge of their well-being.

The enrollment process, designed to be simple and accessible, is bringing hope to thousands of rural dwellers who previously lacked access to healthcare services. With ABSHIA's innovative approach, residents can now register for the BHCPF and receive comprehensive medical coverage, giving them peace of mind and a brighter future.

This initiative showcases ABSHIA's commitment to improving healthcare outcomes in Abia State.

As the agency continues to drive this momentum, the people of Abia State can look forward to a healthier, more prosperous future.

Kudos to ABSHIA for this remarkable effort! 😊

*ABIA STATE HEALTH INSURANCE AGENCY CONDUCTS A ONE‑DAY TRAINING FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCAL PERSONS ON SERVICE DELIVERY*

The Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) has successfully concluded a one‑day Orientation programme for its Local Government Focal Persons at Rapha Hotels Ltd, Umuahia with the objective of equipping participants with the knowledge and tools required to monitor and ensure the quality of services delivered to enrollees within their respective Local Government Areas (LGAs).

In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of ABSHIA, Dr. Chidoziem Egwuonwu, emphasized the critical role of Focal Persons as grassroots mobilizers, particularly as the Agency is set to commence the registration of pupils and students in government primary and secondary Schools into the Students’ Vulnerable Group Health Insurance Programme, following the approval of His Excellency to expand the programme to all public schools in the State.

Dr. Egwuonwu, represented by the Head of Programs, Ijeoma Uruakpa, noted that each Focal Person had been selected on the basis of competence and was expected to apply the training rigorously to guarantee the scheme’s success at the local level.

He also urged them to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) beneficiaries in their various LGAs obtain their National Identification Numbers (NIN) and update their records with ABSHIA, in line with the Federal Government’s directive that all BHCPF registrations be accompanied by a NIN.

Presenting an Overview of the Abia State Health Insurance Agency, Ms. Uruakpa highlighted the various programmes being implemented by the Agency to include Formal Sector Health Insurance Programme, Informal Sector Health Insurance Programme, Tertiary Institution Health Insurance Programme, Basic Healthcare Provision Programme as well as Equity Fund Programme/Students Vulnerable Group Health Insurance Programme.

She further outlined the core responsibilities of Focal Persons, which she said include:

- Raising community awareness and sensitizing beneficiaries on programme benefits;
- Engaging with community stakeholders to foster collaboration in health‑insurance initiatives;
- Acting as the primary liaison between ABSHIA and beneficiaries,among other duties.

Additionally, Dr. Ogechi Ebisike, Head of Standard Quality Assurance, delivered a detailed lecture on referral pathways and claims management procedures, reinforcing the Agency’s commitment to transparent and efficient service delivery.

In their response, Mrs. Catherine Kalu, Focal Person for Aba South and others, expressed appreciation to ABSHIA’s management for the comprehensive training and pledged to execute their duties diligently in order to justify the confidence placed in them.

Udensi Ndubuisi, Public Relations Officer
ABSHIA.

**Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) Reaffirms Commitment to the Success of the Health Insurance Scheme**

The Executive Secretary of the Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA), Dr. Chidoziem Egwuonwu, has reiterated the state government's dedication to delivering quality healthcare services to all residents of Abia State.

During the recent Major Stakeholders Interactive Meeting held at Rapha Hotel Ltd in Umuahia, Dr. Egwuonwu expressed his appreciation to Governor Alex Otti for demonstrating the political will essential for the successful implementation of the Health Insurance Scheme in the state.

Dr. Egwuonwu highlighted that Governor Otti had previously allocated one billion naira for the Formal Sector Health Insurance Scheme and has recently approved an additional two hundred and eighty million naira to extend coverage to pupils and students in public primary and secondary schools, as well as vulnerable populations.

He urged all stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring the continued success of the scheme, assuring them that the agency will persist in its efforts to address initial challenges and ensure that all Abians and residents are included in the various state health insurance programs.

In their presentations, the Head of Programs, Ijeoma Uruakpa, provided an overview of ABSHIA's activities, noting that the agency was established in 2016 and signed into law in 2017, with the mission of providing accessible and affordable healthcare to Abians while protecting families from the burden of exorbitant medical expenses. The Head of Standard Quality Assurance (SQA), Dr. Ogechi Ebisike-Amaechi, elaborated on the processes of referrals and claims management.

Responding, Dr. Chimezie Okwuonu, Chief Medical Director of the Abia State Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Center in Umuahia, along with other health service providers, emphasized the necessity of increasing the capitation for enrollees to enhance service delivery and pledged to improve the quality of care.

Some representatives of enrollees from the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and Local Governments, Mr. David Orji, the ABSHIA desk officer for Ikwuano LGA, and Mrs. Better Arungwa, the desk officer for BCA, commended the agency and health service providers for their efforts in ensuring the scheme's success.

They, however, identified some challenges faced by enrollees, including the unavailability of specific medications and the lack of enrollee lists at their designated primary health providers.

The meeting also featured an interactive session among all stakeholders, fostering dialogue and collaboration.

Udensi Ndubuisi
Public Relations Officer
Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA)

**A Mother's Gratitude: ABSHIA's Lifesaving Intervention**

In a heartwarming display of gratitude, Mrs. Ijeoma Joshua, a mother of preterm twins, has expressed her profound appreciation to the Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) for their crucial support in covering her babies' medical expenses, ultimately saving their lives.

Mrs. Joshua, a resident of Ugba Ibeku in Umuahia North LGA, gave birth to her twins prematurely at the Federal Medical Center Umuahia. Following their birth, she was referred to the Abia State Specialist Hospital for urgent incubation. Faced with the overwhelming challenge of covering the substantial medical costs, Mrs. Joshua found herself in a desperate situation.

In a timely intervention, ABSHIA stepped in and offset medical bills exceeding 4 million naira. This generous support ensured that the twins received the critical care and treatment they needed to survive and thrive.

In her heartfelt testimonial, Mrs. Joshua praised the State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, and ABSHIA for their compassion and generosity. "I am forever grateful to ABSHIA for saving my babies' lives," she shared. "I couldn't afford the medical bills, but they stepped in and offset everything. God bless our Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, and God bless ABSHIA!"

Today, the twins, Daniel and David Joshua, are both healthy and thriving, bringing joy to their family.

ABSHIA continues to make significant impact in the lives of Abia families, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to improving the health and well-being of residents, particularly the most vulnerable.

These efforts not only save lives but also bring hope and relief to countless families across the state.

Udensi Ndubuisi
Public Relations Officer/Head of Media
ABSHIA

**BREAKING: ABSHIA Steps Up to Save Newborn Triplets!**

In a touching display of compassion and generosity, the Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) has stepped in to support newborn triplets in urgent need of emergency incubation, ensuring their survival and well-being.

The precious infants—Ikechukwu Ndukwe, Ogonnaya Imo Ndukwe, and Comfort Ndukwe—were born prematurely (7months) at Ozu Abam Health Center in Arochukwu and required immediate medical attention to combat a critical fight for their lives.

Their parents, Mr. Ikechukwu Ndukwe and Mrs. Nkeiru Ndukwe, indegenes of Amaeke Item in Bende LGA, found themselves in a desperate situation, praying for assistance during this challenging time.

Thanks to ABSHIA's swift and decisive intervention, the triplets were immediately registered under the Basic Health care Provision Fund Scheme (BHCPF) and referred to Abịa State Specialist Hospital Umuahia where they
are now receiving the essential care they need for a successful recovery.

This remarkable act of kindness highlights ABSHIA's unwavering commitment to protecting the health of Abia State residents, particularly the most vulnerable among us. The parents expressed immense joy and gratitude to the State Government and ABSHIA upon witnessing the Agency’s efforts to bring hope and relief to their family during this critical moment.

ABSHIA continues to demonstrate its dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of Abians and residents —ensuring that no one is left behind.

*Beneficiaries Lauds Abia State Government for Formal Sector Health Insurance Scheme* Shares success stories.

Beneficiaries of the Abia State Formal Sector Health Insurance Scheme have expressed their gratitude to the state government for initiating the health insurance scheme, which has provided them with access to quality healthcare services.

Some of the beneficiaries, who shared their success stories, revealed that the scheme has been a game-changer for them, enabling them to receive medical attention without financial burdens. They praised the Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) for its efforts in ensuring that the scheme is implemented effectively.

Mr.Davd Orji, one of the beneficiaries from Ikwuano Local Government Council office said, "When the ABSHIA team visited our LGA to sensitize workers in the formal sector about the health insurance program, many of my colleagues were skeptical because of their past experience with similar government initiatives like the National Housing Fund.
However, I was very interested in the program because I understood the financial relief it could bring, considering how much I spend monthly on healthcare for my family and myself.

After registering for the health insurance scheme, I eagerly awaited the day we would start accessing medical care. Eventually, our names were shortlisted as successful enrollees. I visited my healthcare provider and was impressed to see that the ABSHIA team had properly sensitized them about the program and were also available to provide real-time support. This made accessing healthcare services seamless.

My family and I were diagnosed and treated for different ailments at very affordable rates. I even received a laboratory test free of charge. In fact, my wife, who is a private legal practitioner, said that if there is one reason she would vote for Governor Otti for a second term, it is because of this program and the personal impact it has had on her.

As a desk officer, the training I received from ABSHIA, as well as my personal experience with my healthcare provider, has empowered me to serve my colleagues effectively. I have been able to resolve disputes between some of my colleagues and their healthcare providers without involving ABSHIA, because the team has equipped me with the right knowledge and tools. I believe better days are ahead. I appreciate
The Governor for approving and supporting this life-changing program, The ABSHIA team for their sensitization campaigns, capacity building, and real-time support to desk officers and enrollees. May the Lord continue to be your strength."

Other staff of the State workforce with similar stories include Livingstone Chidinma Lilian, Nwachukwu Goodluck, Grace Ekpe, Uzoma Ogbonna, Samuel Alozie all from the State Ministry of Women Affairs, amongst others.

This testimonial highlights the positive impact of the Basic Health Provision Fund Scheme, the Formal and the Informal Sector Health Insurance Scheme on the lives of Abia State residents. These schemes have demonstrated the state government's dedication to providing accessible and affordable healthcare to its citizens, recording several free medical services to enrollees.

ABSHIA continues to encourage more residents to enroll in the scheme, assuring them of quality healthcare services and financial protection. The agency's efforts aim to increase access to healthcare, improve health outcomes, and reduce poverty in the state.