In a recent announcement, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State approved an increase in health insurance premiums, set to take effect on December 1, 2024. This upward revision affects both individual and family health insurance plans in the state, marking the first adjustment in seven years. While the decision aims to maintain the quality of healthcare amidst rising costs, it comes during challenging economic times for many residents.
The Kwara State Health Insurance Agency (KSHIA) has outlined the new premium rates as follows:
Informal sector premium N15,500 per person per year (up from N6,000)
Formal sector premium N18,000 per person per year (up from N9,000)
Family package (Informal sector)N75,000 for up to 6 members
Family package (Formal sector)N87,000 for up to 6 members
These changes reflect rising costs for medications, consumables, and provider payments, which are essential to sustaining quality healthcare services. According to Dr. Olubunmi Jetawo Winter, executive secretary of KSHIA, the number of enrollees has surged to 70,000 in the last two months, necessitating a review to ensure the scheme’s longevity and reliability.
Dr. Jetawo Winter emphasized that the adjustment wasn’t an easy decision but a necessary one, given inflation and the rising costs of healthcare resources. Notably, Kwara is one of the last states in Nigeria to revise its health insurance rates, with other states like Kogi and Ondo having already implemented similar increases years prior. She explained that the review, originally suggested every three years, hadn’t been done in seven years, making this adjustment essential to keep up with the growing demands on the system.
The COVID 19 pandemic and ongoing economic pressures have further strained healthcare costs. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) also recently raised tariffs for drugs, consumables, and provider services, meaning premiums in Kwara had to be adjusted accordingly.
Despite the increase, Kwara’s health insurance remains one of the most affordable options for quality healthcare. By paying an annual premium, residents avoid the financial burden of paying out of pocket for unexpected medical expenses. The plan covers a comprehensive benefits package.
Subscribers enjoy year round access to these services, making it easier to manage healthcare costs sustainably. Even with the new rates, the scheme remains heavily subsidized, offering Kwara residents significantly lower costs compared to direct payments for medical services.
While the adjustment may pose challenges for some families, the Kwara State Health Insurance Agency is confident it’s a necessary step toward ensuring sustainable healthcare for all residents. Dr. Jetawo Winter reassured residents that the agency is committed to providing affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare throughout the state. Importantly, existing policies remain unaffected, and the new rates will apply to renewals on or after the December 1 start date.
As Kwara navigates these changes, the agency calls for residents’ cooperation and understanding. This adjustment is a step toward a healthier future for Kwara, ensuring that quality healthcare remains within reach for everyone in the state.