Achieving effective and efficient medical service delivery for Nigerians under the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) can be accelerated through the adoption of appropriate technology tools that enhance interaction between Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), healthcare providers, and enrollees.
This was the consensus of experts and stakeholders at the fourth quarterly Providers’ Forum organized by SUNU Health, a national HMO accredited by the NHIA, held in Lagos.
Nigeria’s national health insurance scheme, operational since 2005, was designed to ensure managed healthcare for participants. However, it has faced criticism over poor service delivery by some accredited facilities.
Speaking on the theme “Redefining Healthcare Delivery: Harnessing Technology in Healthcare Practice,” Dr. Usifo Aikpokpo, Head of Medicals at SUNU Health Nigeria Limited, said technology remains key to improving outcomes, transparency, and efficiency.
“Technology will help us bring everyone together, ensure faster service delivery, and promote transparency. With the right tools, wastage can be reduced, and patients will get timely, quality care,” he stated.
Dr. Aikpokpo revealed that SUNU Health has developed a new mobile application that will allow enrollees to communicate directly with healthcare providers, reducing waiting times and improving coordination.
The app, set to go live in two weeks, will also provide access to health records and service updates.
He dismissed reports that some services were being removed from NHIA coverage, clarifying that the federal government had expanded access to include costly medical conditions such as fistula.
“The cost of treatment should not be negotiated at the point of care,” he stressed.
Dr. Faith Nwachi, Chief Operating Officer of SUNU Health, said technology has become indispensable in achieving efficient healthcare delivery.
“Other sectors such as finance and education have embraced technology. Healthcare cannot be left behind,” she said.
Representing the NHIA, Mr. Dare Adefeso, Ogun State Coordinator, commended SUNU Health’s proactive initiatives, urging other HMOs to emulate the approach to deepen health insurance coverage nationwide.
The event, held at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, attracted representatives from government agencies, including the National Productivity Centre, whose Director, Mrs. Chinwe Okwuosa, praised the forum for clarifying key issues and strengthening relationships between providers and HMOs.
Participants completed satisfaction surveys, received clarifications on NHIA entitlements, and witnessed a live demonstration of the new SUNU Health mobile app.
The hybrid event featured attendees from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and other states.
Reporting by Innocent Onoh