Kaduna launches health insurance scheme for pensioners

The Kaduna state government has launched a health insurance scheme for pensioners in the state.

Kaduna state Contributory Health Management Authority (KADCHMA) unveiled the scheme on Monday in partnership with the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP).

Speaking at the launch, Umma Ahmed, the state commissioner for health, said the scheme was designed to provide comprehensive and affordable healthcare coverage for pensioners by reducing the financial burden of medical expenses.

She said the partnership between KADCHMA and the union is a strategic initiative that aligns with the state’s vision of universal health coverage for all residents.

The commissioner said the scheme is expected to benefit thousands of pensioners in the state, who will now have access to quality healthcare without the burden of out-of-pocket spending.

“The enrollment process is expected to be seamless, transparent, and accessible to all eligible pensioners,” she said.

“The launch of the scheme is a testament to the state government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare to all citizens, particularly the vulnerable and elderly.

“With this initiative, Kaduna state is leading the way in ensuring that healthcare services are accessible and affordable for all.

Abubakar Hassan, the director-general of KADCHMA, said the scheme would provide pensioners with access to healthcare services from any public or private health facility across the state without incurring out-of-pocket expenses.

“The annual premium for this health insurance scheme is less than N10,600, making it incredibly affordable for our pensioners,” Hassan said.

“This will facilitate access to quality healthcare for our pensioners, in line with the promises of Senator Uba Sani’s administration to provide access to quality care through a state contributory health insurance scheme.

“The scheme is a result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between KADCHMA, the Kaduna State Pension Bureau, and the Nigerian Union of Pensioners.”

Hassan commended the partners for embracing the scheme and working together to ensure that pensioners have access to the healthcare they deserve.

“The launch of the scheme is part of the state government’s efforts to provide access to quality healthcare for all residents,” he said.

Hassan said the ultimate goal is to build consensus across the state for adopting contributory health insurance as the most affordable way to access healthcare in public facilities.