Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called on residents to register for health insurance, emphasizing the benefits it offers—particularly free coverage for pregnant women and their newborns.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday during a stakeholders’ engagement on the validation of the FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS) operational guidelines and benefit package, Fasawe described health insurance as a powerful tool for expanding access to care, reducing out-of-pocket expenses, and tackling high maternal and infant mortality rates.
She highlighted that in the FCT, health insurance is completely free for all pregnant women and their babies up to 12 months after birth.
“Babies delivered under the scheme receive free healthcare for their first year of life, which includes immunisation and essential medical services,” she stated.
Fasawe stressed that this initiative is part of the FCT Administration’s commitment to eliminating maternal deaths.
“Maternal mortality must become a thing of the past. Our goal is healthcare that is accessible, affordable, and efficient. No woman should die while giving life,” she said.
She urged expectant mothers to seek professional medical care, attend antenatal appointments, and give birth in certified health facilities to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.
Fasawe also noted that the ongoing review and validation of the FHIS documents will usher in a new era for the scheme, focused on delivering high-quality care to all who enroll.
“Once you are insured under the FHIS, accessing healthcare becomes easier, more affordable, and more efficient,” she added.
She encouraged FCT residents to register at primary healthcare centres in any of the area councils, where designated enrollment points are available to assist with the process.
(NAN)
