…As Oluyole 2024 Conference Set to Kick Off in Ibadan
Pharmacists under the aegis of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) have urged the Federal Government to urgently investigate the activities of the National Health Insurance Act (NHIA) in order to make the scheme beneficial to more Nigerians.
ACPN National Chairman, Pharm. Wale Oladigbolu, and other executives made this submission in Lagos at a press briefing in preparation for the 43rd Annual National Conference of the Association.
The conference, themed “Advancing Community Pharmacy Practice through Innovation and Collaboration,” will be held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, from 22 to 27 July, 2024.
Oladigbolu likened the issue with the NHIA as a situation where people are suffering amidst plenty. He noted that, if well managed, the system could solve a major health problem in the country and provide access to affordable healthcare for all.
He said, “The reality of health insurance in Nigeria is quite dismal. Coverage is poor, with less than 5 per cent of the population covered. Out of this, 4 percent are in public service and the remaining 1 percent are in private service.”
He further explained that the health insurance system, as copied from other countries where it works successfully, was not adapted to suit all parties in the industry. He criticised the fee-for-drug payment model under capitation as economically wasteful.
He said, “Paying capitation for 1,000 patients every month regardless of the actual number seeking treatment is not sustainable. Facilities without pharmacists are being paid for drugs, which shortchanges patients by not providing the requisite oversight from pharmacists.”
Oladigbolu called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Consumer Protection Council to address this issue, as medicines handed over without a pharmacist’s oversight are a disservice to patients. He highlighted that the Federal Republic of Nigeria mandates that drugs must be sold or dispensed only in registered premises, yet the National Health Insurance is paying unregistered facilities.
The ACPN National Chairman appealed for mutual respect and a level playing field among healthcare practitioners, emphasizing the need for respect, transparency, and a corruption-free system. He advised against collusive oligopoly, where some healthcare team members dominate to the detriment of others.
On the upcoming conference, Oladigbolu assured that the 43rd conference, also an election year, will be unprecedented in the annals of pharmaceutical conferences in Nigeria. He noted that the conferences have evolved into significant platforms for learning, professional development, and national policy incubation.
He added, “This year’s theme has been carefully selected to impact Community Pharmacy practice and improve national health indices. Highlights include the commissioning of the Maiden Edition of ACPN-Initiated Pharmacare Centre and Multi-class Certified Training for members, among others.”
Pharm. Grace Ikani, chairman of the Conference Planning Committee (CPC), stated that the conference, expected to host over 3,000 pharmacists and other healthcare practitioners, promises to be a rewarding experience. She highlighted the opportunity for participants and exhibitors to showcase their products and services.
Speaking on the conference theme, Ikani said, “Innovation is key to making a difference. Embracing new technologies can provide digital health solutions for communities. The world is evolving, and technology is essential for modern pharmacy practice.”
She emphasised, “Healthcare requires a collaborative effort from various professionals, including pharmacists, medical doctors, lab scientists, nurses, and technicians. Like a jigsaw puzzle, every piece is necessary for a complete and effective healthcare system.”
The press briefing also had in attendance Pharm. (Mrs) Ashore Omokhafe, the national secretary, and Pharm. Babajide Giwa, the national editor-in-chief.
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