By Pat Gbemudu
AGBOR/Nigeria: In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare access for residents, the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) has enrolled students of the University of Delta, Agbor, into the Tertiary Institutions Social Health Insurance Program (TISHIP). The move aligns with the state government’s commitment to providing improved healthcare services to all its citizens.
The inauguration of this initiative, acknowledging the pivotal role tertiary institutions play in societal development, took place recently at the Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba.
Addressing attendees at the ceremony, Olorogun Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of DSCHC, emphasized the extensive benefits of the TISHIP program for students of UNIDEL and other tertiary institutions across the state. Dr. Akpoveta highlighted that the program ensures comprehensive healthcare services for students within and beyond the school premises, emphasizing the commission’s dedication to making healthcare accessible and affordable statewide.
Dr. Akpoveta outlined the commission’s progress in fulfilling its mandate since inception, citing various programs such as the Equity Health Plan, Formal Health Plan, Informal Health Plan, and the Access to Financial Initiative. These initiatives, alongside the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative (IEAI), Artisans Enrollees Inducement Initiative, and TISHIP, have significantly expanded healthcare coverage and improved health outcomes for Delta residents.
Acknowledging Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s support, Dr. Akpoveta also thanked Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari and Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, Commissioners for Higher Education and Health respectively, for their unwavering commitment to advancing TISHIP and healthcare services in the state.
The collaboration between the DSCHC and the University of Delta, Agbor, drew commendation from Dr. Akpoveta, who highlighted its role in advancing the state government’s MORE AGENDA mandate, particularly in safeguarding student welfare.
Prof. Stella Chiemeke, Vice Chancellor of UNIDEL, urged students to promptly engage in the registration process, noting that the TISHIP premium has been incorporated into their school fees. She applauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s dedication to providing quality and affordable healthcare for students and residents alike.
The ceremony included the distribution of DSCHC identity cards to enrolled students and the presentation of the “Health Insurance Ambassador” award to Prof. Chiemeke by the Director-General of the commission, marking a significant milestone in expanding healthcare access across Delta State’s tertiary institutions.
