In Nigeria, the health insurance landscape is evolving as the country strives to improve access to affordable healthcare. Below are the main types of health insurance available in the country;

National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS)

Overview:The NHIS was established by the Nigerian government to provide access to affordable healthcare for citizens. It aims to reduce the financial burden of medical expenses, particularly for public sector employees, and expand coverage to all Nigerians.

Target Groups:Initially designed for federal government employees, the scheme now includes coverage for formal sector workers, informal sector employees, and vulnerable groups (like children under 5, pregnant women, and the elderly).

Services Covered:NHIS covers a range of medical services, including outpatient care, maternity care, preventive services, surgeries, and hospital admissions.

State Health Insurance Schemes

Overview: In addition to NHIS, many Nigerian states have launched their own health insurance schemes to expand healthcare access at the state level. For example, Lagos State has the Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS), and Kwara State operates the Kwara State Health Insurance Scheme (KWHIS).

Target Groups: These schemes aim to provide affordable healthcare to all residents within the state, focusing on both formal and informal sector workers.

Services Covered: The services provided are similar to those offered under the NHIS but are often tailored to meet the specific healthcare needs of each state.

Community-Based Health Insurance (CBHI)

Overview: CBHI schemes are designed to provide healthcare coverage to rural and low-income communities that may not have access to NHIS or state schemes. The premiums are typically lower, and the scheme operates through mutual contributions from community members.

Target Groups: It primarily targets informal workers, small business owners, and individuals in rural areas who might not be able to afford conventional health insurance.

Services Covered: Basic healthcare services such as outpatient treatment, maternity care, vaccinations, and limited hospitalization services are covered.

Private Health Insurance

Overview: Private health insurance is offered by private companies and insurance firms in Nigeria. These schemes are usually more flexible and tailored to individuals' or companies' specific needs.

Target Groups: Private health insurance typically caters to the wealthier population, corporate organizations, and expatriates. Companies may also offer group policies for their employees.

Services Covered: The coverage is often more comprehensive than public schemes, with a wider range of services, including specialist care, advanced treatments, and higher-end hospital accommodations.

Voluntary Health Insurance

Overview: Voluntary health insurance is a form of private insurance that individuals or companies purchase on their own, without being mandated by the government or employers. This form of insurance is popular among those who do not want to rely on government schemes or need additional coverage.

Target Groups: Individuals in both the formal and informal sectors who prefer more control over their healthcare choices or seek higher-quality services than public schemes offer.

Services Covered: It provides flexible options, often with higher premiums but also a more extensive range of medical services, including elective surgeries and specialist care.

Tertiary Institution Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP)

Overview: TISHIP is a specialized health insurance program for students of tertiary institutions in Nigeria. It is part of the NHIS but is tailored to the unique health needs of students.

Target Groups: Students enrolled in universities, polytechnics, and other higher education institutions in Nigeria.

Services Covered: Basic medical services, emergency care, and access to selected hospitals are covered under TISHIP.

Conclusion: Health insurance in Nigeria is still in a developmental phase, with efforts to extend coverage to the broader population through both public and private schemes. Despite challenges such as limited coverage and awareness, these insurance schemes aim to reduce the financial barriers to healthcare and improve overall health outcomes in the country.