Nigeria’s Out-of-Pocket Health Spending Highest in West Africa – WHO

Nigeria has the highest out-of-pocket expenditure on healthcare in West Africa, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

In 2020, Nigerians spent a significant portion, approximately 74.7%, of their health expenses directly from their own pockets.

This means that many citizens have to pay for medical services and treatments without financial assistance, often resulting in financial hardships and limited access to essential healthcare.

Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, the WHO representative in Nigeria, expressed concern about the growing number of Nigerians falling into poverty due to health-related expenses.

Additionally, many people in the country lack access to vital healthcare services, which further exacerbates health challenges.

Mulombo also highlighted the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases alongside the existing burden of communicable diseases and outbreaks, making the healthcare situation more complex.

Addressing commissioners of health from Nigeria’s 36 states at a retreat, Mulombo stressed the need for concrete actions to improve the country’s health sector.

He emphasised the role of primary healthcare (PHC) in building resilience and urged health leaders to prioritize PHC investment.

Mulombo reminded the commissioners that, given Nigeria’s diverse political and economic landscape, their role is vital in aligning state policies with federal government agendas, especially in the face of ongoing challenges.

Ronnak Khan, the Deputy Representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Nigeria, called for enhanced collaboration and coordination between federal and state levels to effectively address the nation’s multiple health system challenges. He expressed hope for improvements in the health sector under the new government.

Former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, proposed that the Nigerian Dental and Medical Registration Council (NDMRC) should temporarily withhold licences from young healthcare workers until they complete a specified period of service in Nigeria.

This approach would ensure that newly licenced health professionals gain experience within the country through the National Health Service scheme before exploring opportunities abroad.

Fayemi’s proposal is designed to encourage healthcare workers to spend a fixed period, typically three to five years, serving in Nigeria before considering international employment.

During this period, their licenses would be held by the NDMRC, allowing them to contribute to their home country’s healthcare system.

This proposal aims to address the issue of brain drain and strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare sector by retaining skilled professionals.

It provides a framework for healthcare workers to gain valuable experience within the country, ultimately benefiting local healthcare services.

Source: The Guardian