Osogbo: The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has announced that it will impose sanctions on Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) and other healthcare providers that fail to meet universally accepted standards. This move is part of the NHIA’s efforts to enhance healthcare service delivery by eliminating obstacles for stakeholders.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the announcement was made by Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, Director-General of the NHIA, at a one-day stakeholders interactive forum for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in Osogbo. Ohiri, represented by Mr. Falode Olalekan, Osun NHIA coordinator, emphasized the importance of the meeting in updating stakeholders on the latest developments and reforms within the NHIA to achieve improved outcomes.
The NHIA is actively working to evolve the health insurance ecosystem, having recorded several breakthroughs and adopted vibrant policies. Ohiri highlighted that the NHIA’s commitment to keeping stakeholders informed is crucial for ensuring effective healthcare service delivery by HMOs and the authority itself.
Dr. Ohiri reiterated the NHIA’s dedication to attaining Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria through comprehensive programs aimed at educating everyone about the authority’s mission. He stressed the importance of core values such as commitment, responsiveness, efficiency, accountability, transparency, and equity to quality healthcare.
Gratitude was expressed to various representatives of MDAs, healthcare providers, and HMOs for their efforts in promoting effective healthcare service delivery. Ohiri called on stakeholders to support the NHIA in its quest to achieve its mandate of universal healthcare services.
Guest lecturers at the forum, including Dr. Adeyemi Saheed, Mrs. Adegoke Ayomide, and Mr. Musa Agundiade, addressed challenges faced by stakeholders, such as medication shortages and long waiting periods for enrolees. Agundiade encouraged beneficiaries to access nearby healthcare centers, avoid impersonation, and exercise their rights to choose providers and referrals.
The News Agency of Nigeria also reported that the meeting was attended by representatives from federal government agencies, paramilitary personnel, healthcare providers, and other key stakeholders.