By Kemi Olatunde

Pensioners in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State have expressed satisfaction with the introduction of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS), describing it as a welcome initiative that will ease access to healthcare without the burden of out-of-pocket expenses.

The retirees made their views known during a sensitisation session organised by the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission (ODCHC) as part of the ongoing verification and issuance of digital identification cards by the Local Government Pension Transition Department.

Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Idanre branch, Mr. Olofinwaka Ebenezer, commended the government for initiating the scheme, noting that it would help pensioners receive timely healthcare services in designated facilities.

“With this health insurance, members will no longer need to move around hospitals in emergencies. There will be a specific hospital where care can be accessed quickly and at no cost. This will significantly reduce the financial pressure of medical treatment on our members,” he said.

Speaking at the event, the Director-General of ODCHC, Dr. Abiodun Oyeneyin, represented by the Director of Business Development and Client Relations, Mrs. Aderonke Ibitoye, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to extending health insurance coverage to all retirees across the state.

She explained that ORANGHIS, launched for the informal sector in 2024 under the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, aims to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and has already recorded success among public servants since its initial rollout in 2022.

According to her, the scheme covers a wide range of services, including treatment for malaria, hypertension, antenatal care, laboratory and radiological investigations, as well as dental and optical services.

Ibitoye also highlighted ongoing government efforts to improve the health sector, including the construction of 250-bed hospitals in Akure and Ondo, recruitment of healthcare personnel, and improved remuneration for doctors to retain medical professionals in the state.

She noted that the Commission works in partnership with the State Drug and Health Commodities Management Agency to ensure a steady supply of quality and affordable drugs to all accredited health providers.

While encouraging pensioners to enrol, she assured them that the Commission would continue to work closely with service providers to ensure they receive quality care.

The session concluded with an interactive segment where ODCHC officials addressed concerns raised by pensioners and provided clarification on the enrolment process and available services.