The Ondo State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi Bakare, has called for enhanced healthcare services for corps members in the state.
Mrs. Bakare made this appeal during her visit to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) State Office in Akure. Highlighting the critical role of corps members in society, she emphasized the need for prioritizing their medical care and expressed concern over the lackadaisical attitude displayed by some Health Management Organizations (HMOs).
The Coordinator urged NHIA to enforce strict adherence to service agreements by HMOs, recommending sanctions for those failing to meet standards. She pointed out that unprofessionalism and a lack of empathy among some providers have eroded the trust of both corps members and the NYSC management.
Additionally, Mrs. Bakare underscored the recurring issue of inadequate drug supplies during orientation camps, stressing the need for a sustainable solution to this persistent challenge.
In response, the NHIA Ondo State Coordinator, Dr. Adebiyi Adebisi, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to delivering affordable and subsidized medical services to all Nigerians, including corps members. He acknowledged the broader difficulties facing the healthcare sector but assured the NYSC team of ongoing efforts to improve service delivery.
Dr. Adebisi highlighted initiatives by the NHIA’s Director-General aimed at enhancing healthcare access across the country. He noted that while certain challenges, especially in first-generation teaching hospitals, remain significant, the NHIA is working to recommend suitable facilities to cater to the needs of corps members.
Expressing gratitude for the visit, Dr. Adebisi commended Mrs. Bakare for her proactive approach, noting that she is the first NYSC Coordinator under his tenure to engage directly with the NHIA office.
