Rivers State Government Enrolls Vulnerable Children Into Health Protection Program

 By: Martha Igbiks      

The Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation has commenced enrolling children from the State's Children Home into the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Program.

 

The initiative, launched by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, aimed to provide quality healthcare for all Rivers residents, including indigent children.

Addressing newsmen shortly after the health insurance enrollment exercise in Port-Harcourt, State Commissioner for Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Mr. Ilamu Arugu expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara for initiating an insurance policy which also involved vulnerable children in the State.

 

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Justina Jumbo, the Commissioner emphasized the Governor's commitment to the people's welfare, particularly the vulnerable groups and seeks the continuity and sustainability of the program.

 

On her part, Acting Executive Secretary of Rivers Contributory Health Protection Program, RIVCHPP; Dr. Vetty Agala explained that giving health coverage to the children, covers common illnesses like malaria, coughs, cold allergies or referral to specialist care and surgeries, with no cost attached to the children.

 "The government subsidizes the costs, ensuring that children receive necessary medical care without financial hardship."the RIVCHPP CEO stated.

"The program has recorded success stories of free deliveries, healthcare services with over 47,000 beneficiaries across the LGA’S of the state accessing care". Dr Agala disclosed.  

Dr. Agala appreciated the governor and the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh for providing the strategic leadership that have made the program a huge success.

 

She encouraged everyone in Rivers State including those with disabilities to access the program which offers various packages, including the Basic Health Care Provision Fund for children below five years and SIM JARA which is #15,000 annually to cover medical cost and it can be accessed at any nearest health centre. 

"You don't have to be in the children's home to benefit. We have packages for drivers, cooks, chefs, and others", she said

At the time of this report, a total of 76 indigent children at the Port-Harcourt Children's Home have so far been enrolled.

This underscores Governor Fubara's commitment to healthcare for all Rivers State residents.