PSN and its selfish interest

While Health and Managed Care Association of Nigeria (HMCAN) as a major stake holder in the industry has refrained from joining issues with PSN on the modalities of the NHIS, it is pertinent to note that PSN has persistently placed its interest above the interest of the other members of the healthcare profession, in spite […]

While Health and Managed Care Association of Nigeria (HMCAN) as a major stake holder in the industry has refrained from joining issues with PSN on the modalities of the NHIS, it is pertinent to note that PSN has persistently placed its interest above the interest of the other members of the healthcare profession, in spite of overtures made to them by other stakeholders including the NHIS. Rather than join other healthcare professionals in ensuring the success of the scheme, they have chosen the path of a solo player who would rather dictate the terms of engagement to other stakeholders on their own terms irrespective of the impact on the overall success or otherwise of the scheme.

Unfortunately, their interest represent a very narrow perspective that does not take into account the interest of the patients and many pharmacists who are currently employed in hospitals all over the country, including those involved in the supply of drugs and medications to over 7,000 healthcare facilities accredited by the NHIS.

The ultimate beneficiaries of the scheme are the enrollees who due to the obvious benefit are now clamouring for more Nigerians to be covered by health insurance. PSN position does not take into consideration the interest and convenience of patients who are expected on their own terms to visit pharmacy outlets for supply of drugs which may be several kilometers away especially in the rural areas, or wait all night for the pharmacy to open in the morning before collecting their medication.

It is also important to note that capitation is paid only for primary care to healthcare facilities which comprise of all healthcare professionals including pharmacists in the respective facilities. Secondary and tertiary care is not capitated as alleged by PSN but are paid for on a fee-for-service basis. The statistics available have shown clearly that health insurance has made health services to become available to average Nigerian, and many of those who currently enjoy the services have demonstrated an improvement in their healthcare status. Without health insurance Nigerians would continue to patronize patent medicine dealers and quacks.

In essence, PSN position represents very narrow interest of a few and not the majority of stake holders in the industry.

Barr (Mrs) Nduka-Uba is executive secretary, Health and Managed Care Association of Nigeria (HMCAN),  Anthony, Lagos.