In response to the significant impact of reduced foreign aid for the treatment of individuals living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the Cross River State Government has announced plans to incorporate these individuals into the State's Health Insurance Scheme, which currently serves over ten thousand people. Dr. Charles Iwara, Director General of the Cross River State Agency for the Control of AIDS (CR-SACA), revealed this initiative during a review meeting in his office in Calabar, attended by the Zonal Coordinator of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) South South and other stakeholders. Dr. Iwara commended Governor Bassey Otu for revitalizing the health insurance scheme and approving the integration of HIV patients. He also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and NACA’s Director General, Dr. Temitope, for their visionary leadership in establishing a sustainable framework for HIV response amidst challenging funding environments. "Today, we stand at a critical juncture where our actions will shape the future of healthcare for individuals living with HIV in our State. We are pleased that support has come through our Health Insurance Scheme," he stated passionately.
He highlighted the importance of accurately identifying and verifying people living with HIV (PLHIV) who would benefit from this integration, advocating for thorough processes to ensure that those who need it most receive comprehensive care without incurring direct costs. Dr. Iwara also used the occasion to commend Governor Otu for the recent renovations to the SACA office, viewing the improvements as a means to attract more partners to the state’s HIV response efforts. "A vibrant and welcoming work environment enhances our ability to coordinate effectively and collaborate with partners dedicated to fighting HIV," he noted, emphasizing how such infrastructure changes can positively impact service delivery. Earlier, the Zonal Coordinator of NACA South-South, Dr. Nnamso Thomas, who was at the instance of the Director General of NACA, Dr Timitope Ilori, reiterated Dr. Iwara’s sentiments, assuring him of the Federal Government's support for the implementation of activities in the State. He praised the Cross River State Governor's commitment to improving health outcomes and acknowledged the substantial efforts made to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality for all citizens.
While commending the State for this initiative, Dr. Nnamso Thomas called for a collaborative strategy to solidify the integration of HIV patients into the State Health Insurance System as a pathway to sustainable health solutions. Supported by representatives from organizations such as ECEWS, Heartland Alliance, and the Cross River Community Coalition on HIV/AIDS (CCCRN), the interface showcased a unified commitment to the integration process and the importance of aligning with national health goals. Discussions also addressed potential challenges in integrating HIV services within the insurance model, with participants sharing innovative ideas for overcoming barriers, including public awareness campaigns and strategies for ensuring continuous funding. The meeting featured a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Primary Health Care Agency, the State Action Committee on AIDS (CRSSACA), the State Health Insurance Agency, people living with HIV, and various implementing partners. This broad representation underscored a shared commitment to enhancing health outcomes for those affected by the virus.
Insurance Scheme
