NHIA SENSITISES HMOs, HCFs ON NEW ACT
BY
MUHAMMAD JAMIL ABUBAKAR.
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has embarked on a one-day sensitisation of Health Maintainance Organisations (HMOs) and Health Care Facilities (HCFs) in Gombe State on the changes in NHIA operational guidelines.
The sensitization aims to engage stakeholders and partners on the new improved workings of the authority from the former NHIS.
The Gombe State Coordinator of NHIA Dr Usman Ahmad said operational guidelines are a critical subsidiary body of regulation that was required in setting out the functions of all stakeholders, especially within the context of the Act.
The state Coordinator noted that the forum was to educate and sensitize service providers and other stakeholders on the new NHIA Act and discuss ways forward for the improved health status of Nigerians.
Dr Usman explained that health insurance was now mandatory for all Nigerians, and NHIA was expected to capture the citizens across the board.
“The new Act of NHIA mandates that by law every Nigerian will get health insurance, and requires all employers and employees in the public and private sectors in the formal and informal sectors to be captured in the scheme,” he said.
He stated that this is a major step towards the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The Gombe State Coordinator observed that the new Act clearly defines the roles of this authority, including promoting, regulating and integrating health insurance schemes for all.
Dr Usman Ahmad however warned healthcare service providers against substandard services to their enrollees.
He said the authority would not condone sharp practices while urging service providers to discharge their duties without fear or favour.
