The Healthcare Federation of Nigeria and the Health Emergency Initiative have launched the Board of Trustees of the Medical Intervention Initiative for Healthcare Access. This collaborative effort aims to strengthen access to timely and affordable healthcare for vulnerable and underserved Nigerians. The initiative addresses critical gaps in emergency healthcare, particularly in situations where individuals require immediate medical intervention outside the hospital but lack the financial means.
The Medical Intervention Initiative for Healthcare Access seeks to provide timely financial support for emergency care, including post-crash interventions. It also aims to strengthen the broader emergency response system through a private-sector-led intervention and dedicated funding mechanism. The goal is to transform emergency response by empowering ordinary citizens and communities as capable first responders. This approach improves access to timely emergency care and leverages existing institutions, systems, people, and technology.
Executive Director of HEI, Paschal Achunine, highlighted that the initiative brings institutions and stakeholders together for a coordinated approach to improving healthcare access. He emphasized that MIIHA builds a practical and sustainable platform to respond to the healthcare needs of vulnerable Nigerians. Achunine noted that by partnering with the right stakeholders, they can help close gaps that prevent people from accessing timely care.
Njide Ndili, President of the HFN, stressed the need to address financial and other barriers that prevent vulnerable Nigerians from accessing healthcare. She noted that access to healthcare is not only about service availability but also about whether people can reach and afford the care they need. Ndili believes that MIIHA strengthens collaboration and develops interventions that prioritize people and their healthcare needs.
Oladele Akinyemi, Chairman of the MIIHA Board, emphasized the importance of strong governance and collaboration in delivering the initiative's objectives. He stated that the Board's responsibility is to provide leadership and oversight to ensure the initiative delivers meaningful value to the people it serves. The inaugural meeting brought together healthcare professionals, civil society leaders, and stakeholders committed to addressing gaps in Nigeria's emergency healthcare ecosystem.
The MIIHA Board of Trustees comprises prominent healthcare professionals and stakeholders, including Njide Ndili, Paschal Achunine, and Oladele Akinyemi. Other members include Aminu Tukur, Olusegun Ogboye, Olayemi Dawodu, and Hyginus Omeje. The board affirmed its commitment to developing MIIHA as a collaborative platform that complements existing government and healthcare systems while mobilizing partnerships and resources to improve access to healthcare.
The board commenced work on the strategic and technical framework guiding MIIHA's implementation, focusing on accountability, sustainability, and measurable impact. This initiative reflects HFN and HEI's commitment to strengthening partnerships across Nigeria's health sector and supporting practical solutions to barriers limiting access to essential healthcare.
Key points
- HFN and HEI launch Medical Intervention Initiative for Healthcare Access to deepen healthcare access across Nigeria.
- The initiative aims to provide timely financial support for emergency care and strengthen the broader emergency response system.
- The MIIHA Board of Trustees comprises prominent healthcare professionals and stakeholders committed to improving access to healthcare.
