According to the WHO, a child is lost every two minutes due to malaria. Almost a quarter of these deaths occur in Nigeria, with an estimated 96,000 deaths annually. Although Lagos state has the lowest prevalence of malaria in the country, the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) is working to reduce this prevalence and improve other health indices in the state by tackling one of the major barriers to healthcare – out of pocket payment at the point of care.

Lagos State Health Management Agency is responsible for coordinating Ilera Eko also known as the Lagos State Health Scheme, a mandatory health insurance coverage for all residents of Lagos State. Ilera Eko aims to reduce the burden of out-of-pocket payment at the point of care, which has shut the door of healthcare to many and pushed some into poverty. It also aims to promote access to healthcare among residents of the state. The scheme enables those enrolled in the scheme to get treated for diseases under its benefits package at no cost.

Ilera Eko provides coverage for services involved in the diagnosis and treatment of malaria for enrollees of all age groups (children, adults and elderly) – malaria parasite test, malaria drugs (Artemisinin combination therapy) and in-patient services for up to 15 days (for cases of complicated malaria). In contrast, it costs between N1,434 and N5,964, and an average of N3,529 to treat an episode of uncomplicated malaria based on WHO recommendation of testing and treatment with Arthemisin-based combination therapy. The Lagos State Health Scheme Enrollees do not pay anything to get care for both complicated and uncomplicated malaria throughout the year once they have subscribed to the scheme with N8,500 for an individual plan. Enrollees and their families of 6 (maximum of four children and two parents) can also enjoy free malaria treatments with an annual premium of N40,000 annually.

The scheme offered free services for 8,201 enrollees on the scheme between October 2020 and February 2021. This includes 1,643 children and 5,246 women. Enrollees also enjoyed free treatments for other conditions outlined in the benefits package of the scheme, including: maternal care services, hypertension, diabetes, among other things.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE EXPERIENCE OF ENROLLEES ON THE SCHEME?

Before I enrolled in the Lagos state health scheme, I spend thousands of naira in a year on treating malaria for my children, but this scheme has stopped that. Though sickness is unpredictable, I am sure my kids will get free and quality care anytime they get sick, and that’s a huge relief – Mrs O.A.

Using LSHS has reduced the amount my family spends on the treatment of malaria every year, and I will recommend its services to every Lagosian. I’m so grateful for the initiative – Mr F. A. A

You can also start enjoying these benefits by registering today.
Are you a beneficiary of the scheme already? We will like to hear about your experience.