Anambra Stakeholders Enhance Health Insurance for Women

The Anambra State Government and key stakeholders convened a roundtable discussion in Nnewi to formulate a coordinated plan aimed at increasing the enrollment of women of child-bearing age and other vulnerable groups into the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) scheme. This initiative is part of the Strengthening Public Accountability for Results and Knowledge (SPARK 2) project, supported by the International Budget Partnership.

The meeting included representatives from various organizations, including the National Identity Management Commission and the National Health Insurance Authority. A significant barrier identified was the mandatory National Identification Number (NIN) requirement, which prevents many indigent residents from accessing healthcare.

Dr. Obiageli Uchebo, Permanent Secretary of the Anambra State Ministry of Health, emphasized the need to address this issue. Stakeholders resolved to utilize the ongoing NIN registration exercise to facilitate both NIN registration and health insurance enrollment.

Participants expressed optimism that improved collaboration would enhance health insurance access for vulnerable populations.