How Kaduna Health Insurance Scheme Is Reducing Out-of-Pocket Health Spending

From: Femi Oyelola in Kaduna

The Kaduna State Contributory Health Management Authority (KADCHMA) has made significant strides in enhancing healthcare access for vulnerable populations. With over 114,000 individuals enrolled in the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) and the Vulnerable Population Programme, this scheme is effectively reducing out-of-pocket health expenses.

During a media engagement in Kaduna, Hassan Abubakar, the Director-General of KADCHMA, highlighted the program’s impact, noting that beneficiaries can now access essential maternal, neonatal, and curative services without incurring financial burdens.

He emphasized that this initiative has improved healthcare outcomes, particularly for women and children in rural areas.

Abubakar explained that Kaduna’s health insurance scheme is a vital component of the state’s efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). By providing financial protection, the scheme is shielding families from catastrophic health expenses.

The BHCPF plays a key role in strengthening primary healthcare utilization while complementing other state interventions. Enrolled beneficiaries receive care without any out-of-pocket payments, ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

The Kaduna State Government has demonstrated its commitment to healthcare by allocating 1% of its Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) to support vulnerable populations.

This funding has enabled the establishment of Zaria and Kafanchan Zonal Offices, enhancing institutional efficiency.

KADCHMA has also implemented innovative reforms, including digital transformation and grassroots sensitization. The KADCHMA Digital Enrollment and Verification Platform (DEVP) allows for real-time tracking of enrollees and management of claims.

These efforts have increased health insurance enrollment from 4.5% in 2023 to 9.6% in 2025. The scheme’s success is attributed to collaboration between the state government, development partners, and local communities.

Abubakar noted that KADCHMA has received invaluable support from the administration led by Governor Uba Sani over the past two and a half years. This support includes improving rural access roads, providing equipment to primary healthcare centers, and distributing essential drugs to medical facilities.

Enhancements have also been made to the state’s General Hospitals, aided by grassroots sensitization efforts from 255 community volunteers and the authority’s weekly radio programs.

He stated, “These efforts are not just statistics; they represent families who no longer have to face catastrophic out-of-pocket health expenses and mothers who can now give birth safely under skilled supervision.”

The Vulnerable Population Programme is saving lives, particularly among women and children in Kauru, Giwa, and Chikun Local Government Areas (LGAs). Beneficiaries gain access to safe delivery, immunization, and treatment at designated facilities.

The scheme’s impact extends beyond healthcare, promoting economic empowerment and reducing poverty. Families can now reallocate resources to other essential needs, improving their overall well-being.

Kaduna’s health insurance scheme serves as a model for other states, demonstrating the potential for healthcare transformation. By prioritizing healthcare, governments can ensure that citizens receive quality care without financial hardship.

The authority’s efforts have received recognition from the Federal Government and development partners. The success of the scheme exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in healthcare.

As Kaduna continues to expand its health insurance scheme, its benefits are expected to reach more citizens across the state. With increased access to healthcare, residents can thrive, contributing to the state’s economic growth and development.

The future of healthcare in Kaduna appears promising, with the state taking bold steps towards achieving UHC. As the scheme continues to evolve, it is likely to inspire similar initiatives nationwide, transforming Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.