By Pat Gbemudu,
The Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) has announced the introduction of free walk-in maternal healthcare services for pregnant women and children under five across all accredited public and private health facilities in the state, effective January 1, 2026.
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, announced during a press briefing at the DSCHC headquarters in Asaba, while outlining key reforms and milestones recorded under the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme.
Dr. Akpoveta explained that the policy is designed to eliminate barriers that delay or prevent pregnant women and young children from accessing prompt medical attention, particularly during emergencies.
He clarified that registration and documentation for beneficiaries can be completed after care has been accessed, stressing that no woman or child should be denied treatment due to administrative challenges.
According to him, the initiative underscores the Commission’s commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes, reducing maternal and infant mortality, and expanding access to quality healthcare for vulnerable groups across Delta State.
He disclosed that all DSCHC-accredited health facilities, both public and private, have been directed to comply fully with the walk-in maternal care policy, adding that monitoring mechanisms will be deployed to ensure effective implementation and adherence to service standards.
Dr. Akpoveta noted that the policy complements ongoing reforms within the Commission, including system upgrades and service delivery improvements aimed at promoting equity, efficiency, and universal health coverage in the state.
He further revealed that the directive has been formally communicated to doctors and Officers-in-Charge across accredited facilities during a recently concluded two-day training session to ensure a smooth and uniform rollout.
The Director-General commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his sustained support of the health sector, describing the initiative as a compassionate and forward-looking intervention in line with the administration’s M.O.R.E. Agenda, which emphasises inclusive, people-centred governance.
