DG PLASCHEMA, Dr. Agabus to Partner With the Media in Advancing the Cause of Universal Health Coverage in Plateau State

Director General of the Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (PLASCHEMA), Dr. Manasseh Agabus has reiterated the agency’s commitment to leveraging the media as a critical stakeholder in advancing the cause of universal health coverage in Plateau State.

The Director General dropped the hint during a media interface with the theme “Media: A Tool for Sustainable Development”. The engagement brought together Journalists and other Media Experts at Crest Hotel Jos on Monday 6th May, 2024 to foster better synergy towards achieving the overall mandate of the agency.

The underscored the vital roles the media play in fostering collaboration among various Stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare providers, insurance partners and the populace.

According to him “the media plays vital role in promoting transparency, accountability and inclusivity in healthcare delivery, ultimately contributing to the realisation of quality and and affordable healthcare for all on the Plateau”.He elaborated on the multifaceted contributions of media platforms in disseminating crucial information about health insurance policies, enrollment procedures and benefits thus empowering individuals to make informed decisions regarding their health needs.

Dr. Manasseh emphasized the media’s potential to shape public perceptions and policy discourse, asserting that “By showcasing success stories, testimonies, and positive experiences of beneficiaries, the agency can also build trust among the public and encourage more people to enroll in our health insurance programs.”

He underscored the importance of media engagement in advocating for policies supportive of sustainable health insurance programs, thereby influencing public opinion and governmental decisions in favor of expanding healthcare access.He disclosed that the media is a facilitator of dialogue and collective efforts aimed at improving access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare services through health insurance programs in Plateau State.

The Director General called for constructive feedback and suggestions from media partners, recognizing the importance of continuous improvement and collaboration in ensuring the success and sustainability of health insurance initiatives in Plateau State.

He mentioned some of the achievements of the Agency to include clearing of backlog payments, house-to-house verification, approval of counterpart funds amounting to N327 million, increased enrollment from 110,158 in 2023 to 277,862 in 2024 as well as the establishment of Community pharmacies. He said lack of operational vehicles and the need for law review to increase premium contributions have posed challenges to the Agency.

He said the Agency has made progress in providing healthcare access, addressing numerous challenges and planning for future expansion all in the effort to achieve its overall mandate which is to provide quality healthcare at affordable rate to Plateau State Residents, especially the poor and vulnerable.