Anambra Government Rolls Out Free HIV/AIDS and TB Care Via State Insurance Scheme

 

In a bold move to enhance public health outcomes and curb mortality among vulnerable populations, the Anambra State Government has unveiled a fresh initiative offering free medical treatment for individuals living with HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) through the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA). The program, made possible by substantial backing from the Global Fund, marks a significant milestone in the state's commitment to universal healthcare.

Dr. Afam Obidike, the Commissioner for Health, disclosed this development during a media briefing on Wednesday in Awka, emphasizing the importance of expanding access to care for those battling chronic health conditions. According to Obidike, the new arrangement will not only ease the financial burden on affected persons but will also contribute significantly to reducing the mortality rate associated with HIV and TB in the state.

“This is a major breakthrough in our healthcare delivery system,” Obidike said. “With the support of the Global Fund, HIV and TB patients can now receive care without having to worry about the cost of treatment. We are urging every affected resident to take advantage of this opportunity by registering with ASHIA.”

The commissioner explained that the scheme falls in line with the state’s broader strategy to ensure that every citizen has access to quality, affordable healthcare. He commended the leadership of ASHIA for securing the Global Fund’s support, which has made the free treatment program a reality.

Echoing the commissioner’s remarks, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ASHIA, highlighted the practical implications of the initiative. He explained that the agency will cover not just routine treatment costs, but also the ancillary medical investigations required to monitor the progress of HIV/AIDS and TB patients.

“When individuals are diagnosed with HIV, they often face significant out-of-pocket expenses for follow-up investigations and treatments,” Onyemaechi stated. “But thanks to this partnership with the Global Fund, ASHIA will now fully handle those costs whenever patients access care through the appropriate channels.”

The MD expressed optimism that the initiative will serve as a model for integrated care in Nigeria, especially in communities where economic hardship remains a barrier to timely healthcare access.

He noted that a major challenge in managing HIV/AIDS and TB is consistent treatment monitoring, which often falls through due to financial constraints. By eliminating the cost barrier, the government is not only offering relief to affected individuals but also reinforcing its public health infrastructure against the spread of infectious diseases.

“This isn’t just about free drugs,” Onyemaechi stressed. “It’s about building a system where no one is left behind because they can’t afford healthcare. It’s about equity.”

The program is expected to boost enrolment in the state’s health insurance scheme while simultaneously improving the health indicators for HIV and TB in Anambra. With this initiative, the government is positioning itself as a pacesetter in people-centric healthcare reforms in Nigeria.

Residents living with HIV or TB are encouraged to visit the nearest ASHIA registration center to begin the process of enrollment. The state government assures the public that all logistics have been put in place to ensure a seamless registration and care delivery process.

The Anambra Health Insurance Agency continues to serve as a critical vehicle for delivering healthcare services to the grassroots, and with this latest development, thousands more are likely to benefit from accessible and life-saving treatment options.