In a significant move to combat the prevalence of sickle cell disorder in Ebonyi State, the wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Ogbonna Nwifuru, has launched a one-month free genotype testing campaign for all residents of the state. This initiative aims to stem the spread of sickle cell disease, a condition that has long plagued the region.
Mrs. Nwifuru made this announcement during the launch of the enrollment of 100 sickle cell patients into the Ebonyi State health insurance scheme, in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health. This initiative underscores the commitment of the Ebonyi State government to improve healthcare delivery, aligning with the people’s charter of needs outlined by the Executive Governor of the State, Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.
Sickle cell disease is a lifelong condition that necessitates consistent and often costly medical care, often resulting in preventable deaths if not properly managed early. Mrs. Nwifuru’s decision to enroll sickle cell warriors into the Ebonyi State health insurance scheme reflects her dedication to providing accessible healthcare services for all citizens.
During the announcement, Mrs. Nwifuru stated, “Today, I am here to flag off the enrollment of 100 sickle cell patients into Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency for easy and timely assessment of health care services to show our readiness in partnering with EBSHIA to give quality health care services to our people.” This move not only signifies their commitment to quality healthcare but also their pledge to achieve Universal Health Coverage.
The event saw prominent healthcare professionals, including the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Moses Ekuma, Hematologist Dr. Oluomachi Nnachi, Consultant Pediatrician Dr. Nwukor Samuel, and Gynecologist Dr. Uche Nwedu, providing valuable insights into sickle cell disorder. They explained its impact on children, adults, and pregnant women, the causes, treatment options, and emphasized the importance of prevention.
Dr. Divine Igwe JP, the Executive Secretary of the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency, expressed appreciation to the First Lady for her unwavering support and dedication to improving healthcare delivery. He also outlined the agency’s goals and how the people of Ebonyi State can benefit from it.
In recognition of her significant contributions to healthcare in the state, the occasion culminated in the First Lady being honored as a Health Insurance Ambassador by the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency. This initiative marks a crucial step forward in the fight against sickle cell disease and underscores the government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services to all citizens, regardless of their health status or economic circumstances.
