Ultimate Health Management Services Limited (Ultimate Health HMO) has called for stronger enforcement of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act 2022, as part of efforts to ensure comprehensive health insurance coverage for Nigerian employees across both public and private sectors.The call was made during a press conference held in Lagos, where the organisation also officially unveiled its new health insurance initiative, Group, Individual and Family Social Health Insurance Programme (GIFSHIP).
Driving Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Lekan Ewenla, emphasized that with the NHIA Act now mandating health insurance for all Nigerians, enforcement is critical to achieving its intended impact.He noted that employers, particularly within the organised private sector, are expected to prioritise health insurance for their staff, leveraging existing medical allowances to provide structured and sustainable coverage.
“Participation is now mandatory under the NHIA Act 2022, and enforcement is key to ensuring that all employees receive the healthcare coverage they are entitled to,” he stated.Introducing GIFSHIP: Expanding Access to Quality HealthcareThe newly launched GIFSHIP product is designed to expand access to affordable, quality healthcare for a wide range of beneficiaries, including:
– Individuals
– Families
– Associations
– Corporate organisations
– Informal sector groups
The programme aligns with NHIA guidelines and offers a robust, standardised benefits package aimed at reducing inconsistencies in healthcare pricing while ensuring quality service delivery across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of care.According to Mr. Ewenla, the product is structured to be both accessible and sustainable, with regulated benefits and improved operational processes that enhance service efficiency for enrollees and healthcare providers.
Addressing Coverage Gaps
Despite ongoing reforms, health insurance penetration in Nigeria remains low, with only about 20% of the population currently covered. A significant proportion of Nigerians still rely on out-of-pocket payments, often leading to financial strain.Ultimate Health HMO highlighted the need for:Increased public awarenessStronger regulatory enforcementInnovative and flexible payment optionsThese measures, the organisation noted, are essential to driving higher enrolment, especially within the informal sector.
Focus on Informal Sector Inclusion
Industry stakeholders at the event also stressed the importance of expanding coverage to the informal sector, which represents a large percentage of Nigeria’s workforce.They noted that while the sector is often perceived as unstructured, many workers operate within organised associations that can be leveraged to drive health insurance adoption.
Commitment to Nationwide Expansion
Ultimate Health HMO reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with both public and private stakeholders to scale the rollout of GIFSHIP nationwide. The organisation is also exploring flexible payment structures to make health insurance more accessible to Nigerians across different income levels.
A Step Toward a Healthier Nation
The press conference underscored Ultimate Health HMO’s continued leadership in advancing healthcare financing solutions in Nigeria. By advocating for policy enforcement and introducing inclusive insurance products, the organisation is contributing meaningfully to the national goal of achieving universal health coverage.