Shocking Gap in Nigeria’s Health Insurance: Why Kidney Patients Are Still Paying Out-of-Pocket

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Posted on: Wed 03-09-2025

Shocking Gap in Nigeria’s Health Insurance: Why Kidney Patients Are Still Paying Out-of-Pocket

The Nigerian Association of Nephrology (NAN) has praised the Federal Government’s recent move to reduce dialysis costs but is urging for bolder action—specifically, the full integration of dialysis and kidney transplants into the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

Government Intervention

• The Federal Government recently slashed the cost of dialysis sessions from 50,000 to 12,000 in designated federal hospitals.
• This initiative is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at expanding healthcare access and easing the burden of kidney disease.

NAN’s Position

According to NAN President, Professor Olugbenga Awobusuyi, the intervention is not comprehensive:

“Adults now pay 12,000, but children still pay 40,000 to 50,000 depending on the location. We need a solution that covers everyone.”

He emphasized that while the subsidy is a step in the right direction, it is not sustainable without health insurance coverage.

Why This Matters

• Kidney disease affects over 850 million people globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
• It is projected to become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 2040.
• In Nigeria, most patients still pay out-of-pocket, pushing families into financial hardship and making continued treatment nearly impossible.

NAN’s Recommendations

Professor Awobusuyi and NAN are calling for:

• Inclusion of dialysis and kidney transplants in NHIA coverage
• Comprehensive intervention for both adults and children
• Sustainable financing to reduce dependence on yearly government subsidies

“In advanced countries, patients don’t pay out-of-pocket for dialysis or transplants. Nigeria must follow suit to save lives and reduce suffering.”

Global Context

In May 2025, the WHO adopted a landmark resolution recognizing kidney disease as a major global public health issue—on par with cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. The resolution promotes:

• Early detection
• Prevention strategies
• Equitable access to dialysis and transplantation

This call for reform is not just about cost—it’s about saving lives and ensuring that no Nigerian is denied treatment due to financial constraints.

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