The “2024 State of Health of the Nation Report” reveals progress in Nigeria’s health insurance coverage and maternal and child health. Despite improvements, key issues such as high neonatal mortality, low facility deliveries, and limited access to family planning remain. The report emphasizes the urgency for comprehensive policy actions and resource allocation to strengthen the country’s healthcare system.
A recent report, titled “The 2024 State of Health of the Nation Report,” has shed light on advancements in Nigeria’s health insurance coverage, maternal and child health, and workforce development. This detailed analysis, conducted under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal and Investment Initiative (NHSRII), underscores the government’s efforts to enhance health outcomes across the nation. However, it also highlights continuing challenges including low facility-based deliveries and high neonatal mortality rates.
The report indicates a positive trend in health insurance coverage, with approximately 19.1 million Nigerians insured by December 2024, an increase from 16.8 million in 2023. Despite this improvement, a majority of the population remains uninsured, facing substantial out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Moreover, the use of modern contraceptives among married women aged 15-49 rose from 12 percent in 2018 to 15 percent in 2023/2024; however, a 21 percent unmet need for family planning persists.
Facility deliveries remain low, with only 43 percent of women giving birth in healthcare establishments, which raises concerns regarding potential complications. The report reveals a decline in under-five mortality rates, dropping from 132 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2018 to 110 per 1,000 in 2023, though neonatal deaths continue to account for a significant portion of under-five fatalities, with a rate of 41 per 1,000 live births.
Malnutrition is identified as a critical public health issue, with inconsistencies in caregiver knowledge regarding proper feeding practices. The report also notes significant occurrences of hypertension and diabetes, with only 12 percent of healthcare facilities offering hypertension management services. A striking doctor-to-population ratio of 2.9 doctors per 10,000 individuals is reported, significantly below the World Health Organization’s recommendation of 17.
To fortify the health system, the report advocates for increased funding and the expansion of health insurance coverage. Moreover, it calls for enhancements in maternal health services, reliable access to family planning commodities, and bolstered immunization and child health initiatives. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity for effective non-communicable disease (NCD) services and training for healthcare providers, especially in rural areas.
The report encourages local manufacturing of medicines and the strengthening of disease surveillance to enhance Nigeria’s health infrastructure. It proposes significant investment in pandemic preparedness and improved emergency response systems, reflecting the urgent need for strategic public health policies in Nigeria.
In summary, while the “2024 State of Health of the Nation Report” highlights substantial progress in health insurance and maternal and child health in Nigeria, it also identifies persistent challenges, particularly in service delivery and access to essential healthcare. The report underscores the critical need for targeted policy actions, enhanced health system resources, and a focus on improving care in underserved areas to fortify Nigeria’s healthcare framework.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
