From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), on Tuesday, launched the revised version of its operational guidelines, introducing new items that would, expectedly, enhance efficient and effective health insurance services to Nigerians.
The document which was launched in Abuja, on Tuesday, is expected to serve as a guiding light for Nigeria’s health insurance ecosystem, as well as roadmap to better and healthier future collectively envisioned for Nigerians.
Director General of NHIA, Prof. Nasir Sambo, in his welcome remarks at the launch of the document, said the guidelines clarified the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders within the health insurance ecosystem, as well as the basic minimum package of health services for all Nigerians, and how schemes will strategically purchase the services.
He also confirmed that the guidelines also specified standards for accreditation of critical stakeholders operating within the health insurance ecosystem, as well as the penalties for offences committed by defaulting stakeholders.
He added: “One of the cornerstones of these guidelines is the principle of equity. We firmly believe that every citizen of this great Nation has the right to healthcare services that are not only accessible but also affordable. No one should have to choose between their health and their financial stability.
“The document is crucial because it is a secondary law. It clarify the roles, responsibilities and obligations of various stakeholders and facilitates the implementation of health insurance in Nigeria. It embodies the principles of equity, quality, and sustainability.”
Minister of health, Prof. Ali Pate, in his remarks at the event, appreciated the efforts put together by NHIA that culminated in the launch of the revised operational guidelines that would provide improved access to quality and affordable health care services.
He noted that access to affordable quality health care for all Nigerians remains key on the path to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Prof. Pate further confirmed that the guideline was developed in consultation with relevant stakeholders in public, private, civil society and within the state governments.
He said: “As we implement on the basis of this guidelines, we should see that more Nigerians are covered over time to meet the goals that has been set by the Federal Government.”