By: Our Reporter, Calabar
Over 500 local residents in Etung local government area have enrolled in the Cross River State Health Insurance Scheme (CRSHIS), courtesy of Dr. Henry Ayuk, Commissioner for Health.
Ayuk said that the introduction of this health insurance scheme for informal workers, including artisans, farmers, and traders, is his way of supporting his community.
He stated, “we are making sure that those who don’t earn salaries like traders and farmers can access health insurance. Once enrolled, they won’t have to pay out-of-pocket for basic health services; all they need is their insurance card.”
To ensure proper usage of the program, the Commissioner established a ward-based selection committee in the 10 wards of Etung LGA, led by community leaders and respected members, to guarantee transparency and fairness in enrolling 50 eligible individuals from each ward, preventing any one family from monopolizing the process.
“This is not a political initiative. The insurance scheme aims for fairness and equity; every ward will be represented,” Dr. Ayuk emphasized.
The registration, managed by the Cross River Health Insurance Agency, involves distributing personalized cards to beneficiaries that include their information and assigned clinics. With these cards, patients can receive consultations, medications, and referrals to both general and teaching hospitals at no extra cost.
Additionally, Chief Godwin Iyala, Director General of the Cross River State Health Insurance Agency, stated that the agency is working to ensure all Cross River residents are included in the health insurance scheme.
He urged philanthropists and community leaders to support vulnerable groups by sponsoring their enrollment.
Chief Iyala also announced that enrollment of beneficiaries into the health insurance database would commence immediately to facilitate seamless access to healthcare services.
In a related effort, Dr. Vivien Mesembe Otu, Director-General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (CRSPHCDA), recently flagged off the Senator Bassey Edet Otu health palliative program at Bendeghe Ekiem primary healthcare center in Etung LGA, aimed at providing continuous free medical services to vulnerable populations.
During the launch, the DG confirmed that pregnant women, children under five, and seniors over 70 will continue to receive free healthcare for the duration of the current administration’s term.
“This is not just a temporary measure. As long as His Excellency is governor, these groups will never bear costs for basic healthcare. Health services should not be politicized; these facilities are for the community’s benefit, and everyone eligible is welcome to access care,” Otu stated.
In addition, Dr. Henry Ayuk referred to the program as a critical support system, urging rural residents who have suffered or faced hardships due to medical expenses to take advantage of the initiative.
“This is the governor’s legacy,” Dr. Ayuk proclaimed. “He has already made the investment so you and your families can enjoy healthier lives. Don’t miss out; otherwise, you’ll lose the opportunity.”
