The Federal Government of Nigeria is reviewing the impact of the N235 billion released through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) over the past three years. This review comes as Nigerians continue to face high out-of-pocket healthcare costs. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) disclosed this ahead of the inaugural Nigeria Health Financing Research and Learning Forum.
According to the NHIA, the government has released N235 billion through the BHCPF in the last three years. The authority aims to determine whether these investments are producing measurable improvements in healthcare delivery and financial protection for Nigerians. The NHIA also reported that health insurance enrolment had risen to more than 23 million.
Despite the increase in health insurance enrolment, high out-of-pocket expenditure remains a concern. Many households are exposed to substantial medical bills, highlighting the need for effective health financing strategies. The two-day forum will bring together policymakers, researchers, healthcare professionals, and health financing experts from Nigeria and other countries.
The forum will examine how limited resources can be used more effectively. Discussions will focus on using evidence to decide which treatments and healthcare services should receive funding. The use of Health Technology Assessment in health financing decisions will also be examined. The NHIA has already conducted assessments covering kidney replacement therapy, colorectal cancer screening, and treatment for advanced liver cancer.
The BHCPF, established under the National Health Act, supports primary healthcare and other essential health interventions. It disburses funds through various gateways, including primary healthcare, health insurance, disease control, and emergency medical services. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, previously disclosed that the BHCPF had disbursed N339 billion to states since its establishment.
The government aims to expand access to primary healthcare and improve essential health services through increased funding. The latest review is expected to strengthen the link between health spending, evidence-based decisions, and measurable outcomes. The forum will provide a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge and best practices in health financing.
The review of the N235 billion health fund is a significant step towards ensuring that healthcare investments yield desired outcomes. With the support of experts and stakeholders, the government can make informed decisions to improve healthcare delivery and financial protection for Nigerians.
Key points
- The Federal Government of Nigeria released N235 billion through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) over the past three years.
- Health insurance enrolment in Nigeria has risen to more than 23 million.
- The government aims to strengthen the link between health spending, evidence-based decisions, and measurable outcomes.
