By Ab Susan
The Federal Government has doubled the National Health Insurance capitation fee from ₦750 to ₦1,450 per person, aiming to improve healthcare access and quality for Nigerians. This move is part of the government’s efforts to achieve universal health coverage, with a target of covering 44 million Nigerians by 2030. The increased funding will enable healthcare providers to deliver higher-quality and consistent care to Nigerians.
The government has also introduced a One Hour Referral Authorisation Code to speed up patient movement between primary and specialist facilities, eliminating unnecessary delays in care. This reform aims to streamline the referral process, ensuring that patients receive timely medical attention. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles, the government hopes to improve health outcomes and reduce mortality rates.
Furthermore, the government has made significant strides in strengthening the healthcare workforce. Nearly 120,000 health workers have been trained since 2023, and 2,500 doctors, nurses, midwives, and community health extension workers have been recruited to boost frontline services. This investment in human capital is expected to have a positive impact on the healthcare system, particularly in underserved areas.
The reforms also aim to expand access to affordable healthcare, with a focus on strengthening primary healthcare centres and improving maternal and child health outcomes. The government has unveiled the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) 2.0 Revised Guideline, designed to improve accountability, transparency, and efficiency in health financing and service delivery at the grassroots level. This initiative is expected to ensure that healthcare resources are utilized effectively, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for Nigerians.
