From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
For the first time in over a decade, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has significantly increased two key payment mechanisms for healthcare providers, namely capitation and fee-for-service payments.
The NHIA said the landmark move aimed to improve healthcare quality and sustainability.
Dr Kelechi Ohiri, director general, NHIA, made the announcement at the NHIA-Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs), Standing Committee Meeting in Abuja, yesterday
He said capitation payments had been increased by 93 per cent while fee-for-service payments rose by a staggering 378 per cent compared to December 2023 rates.
He said the revised rates, approved by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, would take effect from April 2025.
According to him, the adjustments follow a comprehensive actuarial review and are designed to stabilise the industry, address outdated tariffs, and encourage healthcare providers to deliver better services without imposing additional costs on enrollees.
He said the primary goal of the new payment structure was to incentivise quality healthcare delivery while ensuring financial sustainability.
“With the increase in premiums, we expect that the quality of care for enrollees will be improved and sustained.
“Providers are expected to deliver good quality care at no additional cost to enrollees, and the NHIA will ensure strict enforcement.”
He assured stakeholders that the revised tariffs would guarantee fair compensation for providers, encourage top-tier medical services, and cushion the impact of rising medical costs.
He said consumer protection measures would be strengthened to ensure that enrollees experience tangible improvements in care quality.
Key stakeholders at the meeting included heads of HMOs, representatives of healthcare provider associations, and the Committee of Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) of Federal Tertiary Hospitals.
They commended the NHIA for the bold move, and pledged their commitment to ensuring that health insurance enrollees feel the positive impact of these changes.
The adjustment represents a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by making healthcare more accessible, affordable, and of higher quality for citizens.