Anambra health insurance agency urges improved care, prompt treatment for patients

Healthcare providers in Anambra State have been urged to elevate the standard of care and ensure prompt attention for patients enrolled in the state's health insurance scheme. Augustine Ezeka, the Managing Director of the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency, emphasized the critical role of good customer service in building confidence and expanding access to quality healthcare.

During a meeting with chief medical directors from 117 accredited healthcare facilities, Ezeka addressed major concerns raised by enrollees. He identified poor customer care and providers' failure to adhere to approved tariffs as significant issues that need immediate attention. Ezeka stressed that the patient experience is paramount to the scheme's success and the broader goal of achieving universal health coverage in the state.

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We recognise that there are challenges in the system, but through collaboration, we can overcome them.

"We recognise that there are challenges in the system, but through collaboration, we can overcome them," Ezeka stated, reinforcing the agency's commitment to improving healthcare access and insurance coverage. He urged providers to align with Governor Charles Soludo's vision by delivering prompt, high-quality services.

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Health insurance is the way to go, and that is why it is compulsory in many developed countries, and we need to replicate the same in Anambra to ensure residents have access to quality healthcare without financial hardship.

Health finance specialist Alfred Ebiakafo echoed these sentiments, highlighting that good customer care not only benefits patients facing medical and emotional stress but also attracts more individuals to facilities, thereby increasing capitation and supporting hospital growth. He also called for strengthened monitoring of accredited facilities to ensure consistent service quality.

Healthcare providers present raised their own concerns, including patients' insistence on specific medications and treatments, sometimes leading to threats of seeking care elsewhere. They requested the agency establish a health bank and approve drug suppliers to enhance the availability of quality medications and bolster overall healthcare delivery.

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Good customer care will attract more people to your facility, increase capitation and ultimately support the growth and development of hospitals.