The Director-General of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Dr. Kelechi Ohiri has reiterated the government’s dedication to improving healthcare accessibility across Nigeria.
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Dr. Ohiri made the commitment during the Forum of CEOs Quarter 1, 2024 Review Meeting in Abuja the nations capital.
The meeting is a platform aimed at fostering peer learning and capacity building among our members, sharing collective goal to enhance efforts in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across subnational entities, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s broader UHC objectives.
Emphasizing the collaborative efforts between Federal and State levels, the DG highlighted the role of Health Insurance Agencies in combating health poverty in the nation.
“With a focus on financial protection and quality care, the NHIA aims to increase enrolments and extend coverage to all Nigerians, especially the poor and vulnerable,” he said.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, the DG outlined four key objectives: “Enhancing access and coverage, promoting equity in healthcare provision, ensuring quality care, and improving the efficiency of Nigeria’s mixed healthcare system.
“Despite the current low coverage rates, the NHIA remains committed to partnering with state health insurance agencies to drive progress and alleviate health-related financial burdens nationwide,” he added.
In his presentation, the Chairman Forum of CEOs of State Social Health Insurance Agencies in Nigeria, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, emphasis was placed on optimizing health insurance coverage to ensure quality care accessibility nationwide.
Dr. Onyemaechi highlighted the need for subsidized drug rates and quality facilities, urging insurance providers to prioritize these aspects.
“However, challenges persist in cross-state access, with citizens facing difficulties in accessing care when registered in different state schemes.
“A notable outcome of the meeting was the commitment to address these issues, with plans underway to establish modalities for seamless healthcare access across state borders,” he stated.
Acknowledging the efforts of proactive state governors in financing Social Health Insurance Schemes, Dr. Onyemaechi, praised their commitment to improving healthcare accessibility.
Addressing the role of organized labor, Dr. Onyemaechi called for greater involvement in supporting health insurance initiatives, citing the potential economic benefits for workers.
“Collaboration with national health authorities and ministries was is essential to ensuring the success of health insurance programs nationwide, this underscored, the need to prioritize the health and well-being of all citizens.
“I called on all stakeholders to rally around the vision of Universal Health Coverage and make it a reality in Nigeria.”
The Director General of the Kaduna State Contributory Health Authority, (KADCHMA) Dr. Abubakar Hassan, highlighted the pivotal role of political support in advancing healthcare programs.
He expressed gratitude for the recognition of their efforts and emphasized the crucial backing of the political environment in driving program growth.
Dr. Hassan noted the significant support received from the Kaduna state government, particularly in meeting equity requirements and boosting vulnerable programs with consolidated revenue allocations.
“Under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani’s enrolment in health insurance has become a cornerstone initiative, with a commitment to addressing community health needs and reducing vulnerabilities,” he said.
Dr. Hassan highlighted the initiatives such as premium payment support and program segmentation aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the insurance scheme in Kaduna state.
The Acting Executive Secretary, River State Contributory Health Production Program (RIVCHPP),Dr. Betty Agala, outlined the proactive steps being taken to expand health insurance coverage in the state.
“Despite facing challenges, the progress made since the passage of the health insurance law in 2021, the baseline study revealed low awareness of health insurance, prompting efforts to increase awareness and publicize the program extensively.
“I am confidence in the ability of this program to succeed and meet its targets, with a commitment to learning from existing solutions and innovations to drive progress efficiently,” she added.
The Permanent Secretary and CEO of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASAMA), Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, emphasized the importance of key pillars in Social Health Insurance.
Dr. Zamba highlighted the need to ensure common sector ideas and programs for vulnerable populations to promote inclusivity and sustainability.
She commended the progress made in Lagos State’s formal sector health insurance program and encouraged other states to follow suit, emphasizing the importance of peer learning and collaboration among states to strengthen their health insurance systems.
She emphasized the Lagos State governor’s commitment to social welfare and highlighted efforts to leverage public awareness and philanthropy to supplement government funding.
“I urged colleagues to explore additional sources of funding and support to enhance health insurance coverage and ensure the success of health programs, governance and capacity-building is important within health insurance agencies to drive progress effectively,” she said.
Dr. Zamba reiterated the need for coordinated efforts and strategic governance in advancing health insurance agendas, emphasizing the importance of sourcing technical expertise and building capacity within health insurance agencies to navigate the complexities of insurance systems effectively.
“Lagos State is commitment to advancing health insurance coverage, collaboration, political support, and capacity-building in achieving universal healthcare access,” she added.
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