KSCHMA: A Step Towards Universal Healthcare Coverage and Sustainable Development
By Musa Abdullahi Sufi
In the pursuit of equitable healthcare access for all, particularly the poor and vulnerable populations, Kano State in Nigeria has taken a significant stride forward with the establishment of the Kano State Contributory Health Care Management Agency (KSCHMA). This pioneering initiative marks a crucial step towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the state and the region.
Kano State Contributory Healthcare Scheme (KSCHMA), was established by the Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency Law No. 3 of 2016, as a system of advance financing of health expenditure through contributions, donations or taxes paid into a common pool to pay for all or part of the health services specified by the benefit package (KSCHMA Website).
According to the executive secretary of agency Dr. Rahila Mukhtar under the leadership of Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, emphasized that the Kano State Contributory Health Care Management Agency embodies the state government’s commitment to ensuring that every citizen has access to essential healthcare services, regardless of their socio-economic status. The key function of the agency as established is to promote, regulate, supervise and ensure the effective administration of Kano State Contributory Healthcare.
Through a contributory health insurance scheme, the agency aims to pool resources from various stakeholders to finance healthcare services for enrollees, thereby reducing out-of-pocket expenses and financial barriers to accessing quality healthcare.
One of the primary objectives of the KSCHMA is to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage to the most vulnerable segments of society, including low-income earners, women, children, and the elderly through various initiatives and programs. This could be in response to prioritizing the needs of these populations as the agency seeks to address disparities in healthcare access and improve health outcomes across the state.
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Central to the success of the contributory health insurance scheme is its focus on integrating the access to both public and primary healthcare with enrollees choosing facility that suits them either by distance, familiarity and other social factors. In addition, the agency support training for healthcare workers and community awareness towards preventive and primary healthcare services. Because, by emphasizing preventive measures, health education, and early intervention, the agency aims to reduce the burden of preventable diseases and promote healthier lifestyles among residents of Kano State.
Moreover, the KSCHMA is committed to strengthening the healthcare system infrastructure, including facilities equipment, and human resources. By investing in healthcare infrastructure and capacity-building initiatives, the agency aims to enhance the quality and availability of healthcare services across the state, particularly in underserved areas. This is easily be generated from the monthly capitation allocated to KSCHMA registered facilities.
In addition to improving healthcare access and quality, the establishment of the Kano State Contributory Health Care Management Agency has broader implications for sustainable development. Access to healthcare is not only a fundamental human right but also a critical driver of socio-economic development. By ensuring that all citizens have access to essential healthcare services, the agency contributes to poverty reduction, economic growth, and social inclusion through improved access to healthcare.
Furthermore, the KSCHMA aligns with the global agenda for sustainable development (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 of the SDGs, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. By expanding healthcare coverage and improving health outcomes, the agency plays a vital role in advancing progress towards achieving the SDGs, both in Kano State and beyond.
In conclusion, the establishment of the Kano State Contributory Health Care Management Agency represents a significant milestone in the journey towards Universal Health Coverage and sustainable development in Nigeria.
Through its innovative approach to healthcare financing and service delivery, the agency has the potential to transform the health landscape of Kano State, improve the lives of its citizens, and contribute to the achievement of broader development goals. However, sustained political commitment, adequate funding, and effective implementation will be essential to realizing the full potential of this transformative initiative.
Musa Abdullahi Sufi writes from Kano
