 |
| Image: The Nations Newspaper |
Health Management Organisations (HMOs) in Nigeria are offering a diverse array of products to cater to the healthcare needs of individuals, households, and businesses. These offerings not only provide quality healthcare but also aim to alleviate the financial burden associated with unexpected medical expenses.
Against the backdrop of rising living costs, HMOs have introduced individual and family bundles, allowing access to healthcare without incurring out-of-pocket expenses. Harrison Okafor, Head of Medical Services at MetroHealth HMO, emphasized the critical need for Nigerians to embrace health insurance, particularly in the face of soaring medical care expenses. He highlighted the advantages of HMOs leveraging bulk purchases to negotiate better rates for medications and the availability of flexible payment plans to make healthcare accessible even during challenging times.
MetroHealth HMO offers various retail plans, including the Metro Flexi plan, which allows monthly payments, catering to diverse purchasing powers. Gideon Anumba, Head of Operations at Leadway Health Ltd, emphasized their commitment to using technology to enhance efficiency, preventive healthcare initiatives, and wellness activities to keep premiums affordable.
Abdul-Rasheed Akolade, Assistant Director of Underwriting and Marketing at Africa Re, highlighted the significance of health insurance covering named illnesses, injuries, or conditions, providing financial support for treatments that could otherwise lead to financial ruin. Critical illness insurance, covering diseases like heart attack, stroke, and cancer, was underscored as a tool for preserving and building wealth.
Various HMOs, including Avon HMO and AXA Mansard Health, have tailored retail plans for individuals, families, and small groups, ensuring prompt access to quality healthcare services. AXA Mansard Health CEO Tope Adeniyi emphasized the affordability and technology-driven convenience of their health products, ranging from primary healthcare plans to critical illness coverage.
While Nigeria lacks a national health insurance program, private sector offerings are highly competitive. Coronation Insurance analysts emphasized the flexibility of premium payment options, making insurance accessible to a wide demographic. They advised purchasing health insurance early in life and understanding the possibility of holding multiple health covers with proper disclosure.
In addition to financial protection, the analysts highlighted the positive impact of health insurance on lifestyle choices and health outcomes. In some countries, insurance providers incentivize healthy practices, contributing to overall population health and reducing insurance costs.
As the landscape of health insurance continues to evolve in Nigeria, the emphasis is on accessibility, affordability, and the promotion of proactive healthcare choices for a healthier and more secure population.
Source: businessday.ng
#Health Insurance
#HMO
#AXA Mansard Health
#Coronation Insurance
#AVON HMO
Posts
0 Comments