UNICEF and the Oyo State Government are working together to promote the implementation of health insurance programmes to reduce the country’s high child mortality rates. This cooperative effort was brought to light at the “Changing the narrative on child mortality through health insurance” media workshop in Ibadan, Oyo State.
A health specialist with UNICEF, Dr. IIjeoma Agbo, addressed workshop attendees and underlined the need for universal health coverage (UHC) to enable access to critical healthcare services without financial strain.
Dr. Agbo observed a consistent growth in the proportion of the population covered by health insurance over time. However, she also identified considerable gaps, particularly among disadvantaged groups, that remain uninsured.
“Universal Health Coverage is achieved when all people have access to high-quality essential services they need without facing financial hardship, particularly at the time of service delivery.
“Several states in Nigeria have introduced their health insurance schemes to complement the NHIS and extend coverage to residents. These state-level schemes vary in scope, coverage, implementation effectiveness, and impact in terms of overall progress towards UHC,” she explained.
Dr. Agbo addressed the significance of state-level health insurance programmes to supplement the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and provide coverage to residents. She stressed the importance of working together to address systemic obstacles and strengthen healthcare systems to expedite progress towards UHC.
“Achieving UHC requires a multi-sectoral and collaborative approach involving government agencies, healthcare providers, donor agencies, civil society organisations, the private sector, communities, and the media,” she highlighted.
She reiterated UNICEF’s commitment to collaborating with all partners to remove barriers and provide equitable access to healthcare for all Nigerians.
“UNICEF is committed to working with all stakeholders to overcome barriers, leverage resources, and ensure that all Nigerians have access to the healthcare services they need without financial hardship,” Dr. Abgo stated.
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