Representatives seek free Medicare for pregnant women

The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Welfare to order public health institutions to provide free medical treatment to pregnant women during and after childbirth.

The call was a sequel to the adoption of a motion by Mohammed Shehu (PDP-Bauchi) in plenary on Wednesday.

They also urged the ministry to implement routine checks to ensure continuity, compliance by medical staff and sustainability of birth processes.

Presenting the motion, Shehu said the government established public health institutions to provide medical services to humanity.

He added that the institutions are supplied with medicines and equipped with modern medical facilities, and have the responsibility of handling health-related matters.

Shehu said that although health services are not limited to pregnant women, efforts to encourage free treatment for pregnant women have not been fully realized.

He said given the fertility statistics in the country, there was a need to provide free medical treatment to pregnant women to increase the country’s fertility rate.

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“Nigeria is grappling with high rates of disease, resulting in an annual maternal mortality rate of pregnant women and children due to pregnancy complications and the polio virus.

“Furthermore, aware that the government requires public health institutions to have medical professionals, provide adequate care to patients, including pregnant women, during childbirth to address complications and find permanent solutions.

“There is a need for the government to prioritize policy actions aimed at improving healthcare delivery systems, particularly for pregnant women, to alleviate their difficulties and increase their confidence,” he said.

In his ruling, Vice President Benjamin Kalu ordered the Health Services and Institutions Committee to contact the Minister of Health and Social Welfare to ensure compliance.

The committee must report within four weeks to take further legislative action.

(YAYA)