In this article, we’ll explore the payment details of NHIS for Corpers. Whether you’re a prospective corps member or currently serving and considering NHIS as your PPA, this information will guide you. Stay tuned as we delve into NHIS’s payment structure, along with insights into the institution’s history, duties, and more.
About NHIS
NHIS is a Nigerian social health insurance program created in 1999 by the Federal Government to enhance healthcare access and complement funding for the health sector. It aims to achieve equity in health service delivery for the majority of Nigerians.
Objectives
The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in Nigeria, guided by Act 35 of 1999, has several key objectives. Firstly, it aims to guarantee access to quality healthcare services for every Nigerian. Secondly, the scheme seeks to shield families from the financial burden of substantial medical expenses. Additionally, it strives to control the escalation of healthcare costs and promote a fair distribution of these costs among various income groups.
Maintaining high standards in healthcare delivery, ensuring efficiency in services, and encouraging private sector involvement are integral goals. The NHIS also emphasizes equitable distribution of healthcare facilities across the Federation, promoting appropriate patronage at all healthcare levels. Lastly, it aims to secure funds for the health sector, contributing to the overall improvement of services.
How NHIS Scheme Works
The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) operates through a systematic process involving employers, accredited Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), and healthcare providers. Employers register with NHIS, receiving a unique identification number. They then choose an accredited HMO and provide necessary personal details for enrollment, resulting in the issuance of ID cards for the employee and eligible dependents.
Primary healthcare needs are addressed by a Primary Care Provider (PCP) based on NHIS benefits. For specialized cases, the PCP refers the employee to a secondary or tertiary provider accredited by NHIS, following established referral guidelines. The HMO pays the PCP a predetermined monthly global capitation of N550 per member.
Claims are processed by the HMO, which reimburses specialists based on an agreed fee-for-service tariff stipulated by NHIS. To ensure transparency and proper channels, referrals must be approved by the HMO before payment. Claims are submitted monthly by the 14th day of the following month, with the HMO committed to reimbursing clean claims within 14 days of receipt.
The prescription process involves standardized pharmacy sheets distributed to the doctor, pharmacy, and HMO for streamlined notification of claims. This structured approach ensures a smooth functioning of the NHIS, fostering accessibility and timely reimbursement within the healthcare system.
Benefits
NHIS enrollees enjoy a range of comprehensive benefits designed to cover various aspects of healthcare. Out-patient care, inclusive of necessary consumables, is part of the package, along with prescribed drugs, pharmaceutical care, and diagnostic tests aligned with the National Essential Drug List and Diagnostic Test List. Maternity care is provided for up to four live births, catering to insured contributors and couples within the Formal Sector Programme.
Preventive care features prominently, encompassing immunization aligned with the National Programme, health education, family planning, and antenatal/post-natal care. Consultation with specialists, including physicians, pediatricians, obstetricians, and others, is included. Hospital care in a standard ward is available for a cumulative 15 days per year in non-military hospitals, with no limit in military hospitals. After this limit, the beneficiary and/or the employer contribute.
Eye examination and care, excluding the provision of spectacles and contact lenses, are covered, along with prostheses limited to domestically produced artificial limbs. Preventive dental care, including consultation, dental health education, amalgam filling, and simple extraction, is part of the benefits. All healthcare providers are expected to integrate counseling as a fundamental aspect of delivering quality care.
How Much Does NHIS Pay Corpers?
According to reliable sources cited by Students Mirror, NHIS pays Corpers a monthly allowance ranging from N25,000 to N50,000, and in some cases, even more. The actual remuneration can vary based on the specific role and department to which the youth Corper is assigned. Different roles and office locations within the industry can influence the pay scale.
For comprehensive details on serving at NHIS, it is advisable to contact them directly, as NHIS has multiple offices across the country. Prospective Corpers should stay alert for announcements regarding NHIS accepting applications. During the application process, ensure necessary credentials such as your Statement of Result and WAEC result are readily available.
Moreover, if you aspire to be posted at NHIS from Camp, obtaining a request letter from NHIS is essential. It’s crucial to note that NHIS hardly retains Corpers after service.