NHIA increases health insurance capitation by 60%, implements 40% fee for service hike in Nigeria

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has announced substantial tariff adjustments, including a 60% increase in capitation and a 40% rise in Fee-For-Service (FFS) fees.

These changes were disclosed during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, aimed at maintaining the health insurance scheme’s viability and improving service delivery.

Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, NHIA’s Director General, stressed the importance of affordable and quality healthcare for enrollees, despite potential financial impacts on patients and employers.

The adjustments respond to escalating healthcare delivery costs and are intended to ensure healthcare providers receive adequate resources to manage patient care effectively.

The capitation system, where providers receive a fixed amount per patient, will see a significant boost under the new tariffs, aiming to enhance service quality and address rising operational expenses.

Dr. Aminu Magashi from the Africa Health Budget Network highlighted that while the goal is to enhance healthcare services, the tariff increases.

NHIA plans to monitor the impacts closely and make necessary adjustments to maintain a robust healthcare system that meets the needs of Nigerians across the country, emphasizing its commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).