By Rimawa Global News Correspondent
Obi, Nasarawa State
The Nasarawa State Health Insurance Agency (NASHIA) has stepped up efforts to improve access to quality and affordable healthcare in the southern zone of the state, as it concluded a three-day capacity-building training for its zonal officers in Obi Local Government Area.
The training, which focused on strengthening grassroots implementation of the state health insurance scheme, underscored the agency’s commitment to ensuring residents access healthcare services without suffering financial hardship.
Speaking at the programme, the Director of Marketing and Business Development, Mrs. Hadiza Dogara, said the agency is intensifying awareness campaigns across Nasarawa State’s 13 local government areas to boost enrollment and deepen participation in the scheme.
According to her, expanding public understanding of NASHIA’s programmes is critical to increasing coverage at the grassroots and guaranteeing financial risk protection for vulnerable populations.
Also addressing participants, Mr. Reuben Aya, representing the Director of Finance and Accounting, explained that NASHIA operates a pooled funding system derived from mandatory contributions.
He emphasized that proper documentation and accurate record-keeping by officers are essential to ensure prompt capitation payments and smooth financial operations.
On accreditation and quality assurance, Mrs. Rahamat Mohammed, who spoke on behalf of Pharmacist Kaki Maikudi Kudu, stressed that healthcare facilities must meet established NASHIA standards to qualify for participation in the scheme.
She noted that the agency deploys the Integrated Quality Supportive Supervision (IQSS) mechanism to inspect and monitor facilities, ensuring consistent service quality and patient safety across the state.
The training also provided practical sessions on enrollment processes, financial management, and facility accreditation, aimed at equipping officers with the skills required to drive effective implementation at the local level.
NASHIA reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with stakeholders to make healthcare services more accessible, affordable, and sustainable for all residents of Nasarawa State.
