The Federal Government is reviewing the impact of healthcare financing initiatives amid concerns that millions of Nigerians still face significant out-of-pocket medical expenses despite increased funding and expanded health insurance coverage.
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) disclosed this ahead of the inaugural Nigeria Health Financing Research and Learning Forum scheduled to begin on September 28.
According to the authority, more than ₦235 billion has been disbursed through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund over the past three years, while health insurance enrolment has risen to over 23 million Nigerians.
However, the NHIA noted that many households continue to bear substantial healthcare costs directly, exposing families to financial hardship whenever medical treatment is required.
The two-day forum will bring together policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers and financing experts to examine how limited health resources can be utilised more efficiently.
Discussions will focus on improving access to quality healthcare services, strengthening evidence-based decision-making and ensuring that government spending delivers measurable benefits for citizens.
The authority said participants would evaluate strategies for determining which treatments, medicines and interventions provide the best value for public investment.
A major area of focus will be Health Technology Assessment, a process used to evaluate whether specific healthcare interventions justify their costs and improve patient outcomes.
According to the NHIA, the approach has already been applied in assessments covering kidney replacement therapy, colorectal cancer screening and treatment options for advanced liver cancer.
The forum is expected to contribute to ongoing health sector reforms coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare under the leadership of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
Officials say the broader goal is to ensure that increased health spending translates into better healthcare delivery, wider access to treatment and stronger financial protection for Nigerians.
