The Enugu State Government has urged media practitioners to deepen public awareness of its free and inclusive healthcare programmes, particularly free malaria testing and treatment, and the subsidised health insurance scheme.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, made the call on Wednesday during the Malaria Elimination Programme, Advocacy Communication and Social Mobilisation (ACSM) Quarterly Media Chat in Enugu.
Represented by Dr Ifeyinwa Ugwunweze, Health Secretary of Enugu East Local Government Area, Prof. Ugwu said the free malaria testing and treatment, as well as the subsidised annual N12,000 health insurance scheme, are available statewide in all government-owned health facilities and selected private facilities.
“As a state, we are grateful for the wonderful work the media is doing in constantly projecting health initiatives. However, there is an urgency to do more, especially by targeting well-tailored messages to rural areas so residents can take full advantage of these programmes,” he said.
Ugwu described the free malaria treatment and subsidised health insurance as flagship programmes of Governor Peter Mbah, aimed at reducing the socioeconomic burden of healthcare and improving access to quality medical services.
Earlier, the Programme Manager of the State Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr Ifeoma Otiji, commended development partners such as the Islamic Development Bank and JHPIEGO for their support. She also appreciated the media for helping to sustain awareness campaigns.
“With strong media support, the Enugu State Malaria Elimination Programme is visible and its impact is being felt across communities. We currently have free malaria testing and treatment in 527 health facilities, especially in rural areas,” Otiji said.
She noted that malaria prevalence in the state had reduced from 24 per cent to 9.9 per cent, adding that efforts are ongoing to bring it below 5 per cent and ultimately achieve total elimination.
Media expert Mr Gregory Odiakosa urged journalists to sustain communication support for healthcare promotion. He also called on the government and development partners to provide financial support to media organisations to strengthen health communication efforts.
Highlights of the event included an overview of the malaria elimination programme and a lecture titled “Power of Media in Public Relations” delivered by Mr Josh Ejeh.
