Rethinking Nigeria’s healthcare access

Nigeria's healthcare system is undergoing a significant transformation with key reforms aimed at improving primary healthcare accessibility and universal health coverage for all citizens. The government recently approved 25 billion naira to redesign the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, with plans to finalize the reforms by July this year. Kelechi Ohiri, Director General and CEO of the National Health Insurance Agency, shed light on the changes during a recent interview with CNBC Africa. The National Health Insurance Scheme has seen substantial legislative reforms, transitioning to a public-private partnership model. This shift has strengthened the regulatory capacity of the agency, made health insurance mandatory, and enabled the integration of all healthcare schemes in the country. Previously, health insurance enrollment was optional, leading to low coverage rates below 5 percent. By making it mandatory, the government aims to create a risk pool for better insurance coverage. One of the key changes introduced through the reforms is the establishment of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, which allocates a percentage of the consolidated revenue to primary healthcare. This fund specifically targets the poor and vulnerable populations, ensuring they have access to essential health services. The government is currently redesigning the scheme to enhance its operational efficiency and better identify beneficiaries. Moreover, the reforms have separated the role of the National Health Insurance Agency as a provider of health insurance from its regulatory function. The agency now collaborates with public and private sector stakeholders, including state health insurance schemes and health maintenance organizations, to create a more efficient and inclusive healthcare market. The goal is to expand insurance coverage and achieve universal healthcare for all Nigerians. Despite these positive changes, challenges remain in reaching the informal sector, which comprises individuals without formal jobs or businesses. The Basic Healthcare Provision Fund aims to address this by directing funds through state health insurance schemes to identify and enroll impoverished individuals in social health insurance. By leveraging community and social registers, the government plans to target those most in need and provide them with access to primary healthcare services. Individuals in the informal sector who struggle to afford healthcare can seek enrollment at various registration centers established by the Health Insurance Agency. By enrolling in insurance, they can access essential healthcare services at a fraction of the cost they would pay out of pocket. The government is committed to progressively expanding coverage and ensuring that all citizens, including those in the informal sector, have access to quality healthcare. As Nigeria's healthcare sector undergoes these transformative reforms, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential impact on healthcare accessibility and coverage. While challenges persist in reaching vulnerable populations, the government's efforts to establish a more inclusive and efficient healthcare system are poised to benefit all Nigerians in the long run.