From John Dike, Osogbo

The Osun Health Insurance Agency (OSHIA) has enrolled 23,000 retirees into its health insurance scheme, according to the Agency’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Rasaq Akindele.

He said the step was part of the state government’s effort to ensure that retired civil servants receive their health benefits after their mandatory service years.

Dr. Akindele who dropped this hint while answering questions from journalists in Osogbo on Wednesday, revealed that the Agency is continuously enrolling new retirees and has digitized the enrollment process, making it easier for pensioners to access health facilities.

However, he lamented that many people are still ignorant about how the Agency operates and has partnered with media organisations to educate the public.

He disclosed that the Agency has deployed staff to all local government areas to mobilize pensioners and gather accurate statistics of retirees.

Dr. Akindele acknowledged that the Agency faced challenges, including inherited debts, but stated that the state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has been supportive, especially in terms of funding.

He emphasized that the Agency has simplified the process, and citizens can access information and enroll in the scheme through their website.

Akindele noted that the ultimate goal is to ensure that every citizen of the state benefits from the program, as “health is wealth.”