Universal Health Coverage: Nigeria Sets New Goals

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Universal Health Coverage

Nigeria is advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through transformative resolutions made during the 65th National Council on Health (NCH). Held from November 18 to 22, 2024, at the University of Maiduguri, the event focused on equitable healthcare and strategies for 2030 success.

Transforming Nigeria’s Healthcare System

The theme of the conference, “Accelerating Pathways to Universal Health Coverage: Strategies for 2030 Success,” underscores the urgency of achieving sustainable healthcare. Over 1,150 delegates, including policymakers and healthcare professionals, collaborated to address funding gaps, service delivery, and community engagement.

The Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Pate, stressed that UHC is a moral obligation. He urged stakeholders to champion equitable access to quality healthcare, particularly for underserved communities.

Maternal Health Challenges and UHC Progress

WHO representative Dr. Walter Mulombo praised Nigeria’s UHC Service Coverage Index improvement, rising from 25 in 2003 to 44 in 2019. Despite this, out-of-pocket healthcare costs still account for 75% of expenditures, limiting accessibility for millions. Maternal mortality, contributing to 20% of global maternal deaths, remains a critical concern.

Key Resolutions from the 65th NCH

1. Digital Health Transformation

Delegates emphasized digitizing health records, improving data interoperability, and enhancing disease surveillance. These efforts aim to streamline service delivery and boost pandemic preparedness.

2. Strengthening Human Resources for Health

The council resolved to institutionalize HRH units nationwide, with dedicated focal persons in local governments to enhance workforce efficiency.

3. Addressing Gender-Based Violence

Integrating GBV services into primary healthcare was hailed as transformative. This aims to support survivors and foster gender equity across communities.

4. Climate Change and Health Adaptation

The Health National Adaptation Plan (H-NAP) targets climate-induced health vulnerabilities, including malaria and cholera.

5. Infection Prevention and Control

The revised IPC policy prioritizes resource allocation, compliance monitoring, and training to reduce hospital-acquired infections.

6. Emergency Medical Services

Institutionalizing NEMSAS as an independent agency aims to enhance emergency care access, particularly in rural areas.

Funding and Community Engagement

The council underscored the importance of adequate funding through mechanisms like expanding the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). Innovative public-private partnerships were highlighted as vital for bridging funding gaps.

Community-driven solutions were emphasized to build trust and ensure healthcare services reach vulnerable populations. Addressing socio-cultural barriers remains a priority for improving access in rural areas.

Turning Resolutions Into Results

The 65th NCH is a milestone in Nigeria’s journey to achieve Universal Health Coverage by 2030. Realizing these goals requires collective action, sustainable funding, and bold leadership.

Call to Action

Explore documents and insights related to Nigeria’s UHC journey by visiting genderpedia.ng/shop. Gain comprehensive resources to support healthcare advocacy and policy implementation.

References

For further reading, check these resources:

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