Yobe State’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Muhammad Lawan Gana, has highlighted the challenges faced by healthcare coverage in the state due to rising drug prices influenced by factors like the elimination of fuel subsidies, inflation, and foreign exchange rates.
Speaking at the validation of the Yobe State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (YSCHMA) operational guideline in Damaturu, Dr. Gana emphasized the impact of these factors on healthcare accessibility in the state.
The state government, through YSCHMA, aims to provide coverage for 200,000 registered individuals, but concerns have been raised about the increasing costs of medications, affecting those utilizing the healthcare facilities.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and UNICEF, efforts are being made to review the operational guidelines of the contributory agency to address these challenges and ensure the success of the healthcare scheme.
Dr. Babagana Tijjani, the Executive Secretary of YSCHMA, noted that over 200,000 people have been enrolled in the scheme since its establishment four years ago, highlighting the agency’s commitment to expanding healthcare access despite the prevailing obstacles.
