PharmAccess mobilizes public and private resources for the benefit of doctors and patients through clinical standards and quality improvements, loans for healthcare providers, health insurance, mHealth innovations and operational research.
On November 26, 2024, PharmAccess hosted a Research Symposium in Abuja, Nigeria, bringing together policymakers, researchers, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders to foster collaboration and achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
Connecting Research and Policy for a Healthier Nigeria
On November 26, 2024, PharmAccess hosted a Research Symposium in Abuja, Nigeria, bringing together policymakers, researchers, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders to foster collaboration and innovation to advance healthcare delivery and achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Themed “Innovating Healthcare in Nigeria: Connecting Research and Policy for UHC,” the event underscored the critical role of evidence-based research in shaping healthcare policy and fostering sustainable change.
Key Voices Championing Research and Policy Integration
Distinguished guests included Dr. Abdu Mukhtar, National Coordinator of the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC); Prof. John Obafunwa, Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR); Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, Director General, Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC); Dr. Muhammed Lecky, Former Executive Secretary, Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON); Njide Ndili, Country Director of PharmAccess Nigeria, amongst others. Their collective insights underlined the symposium’s central message: effective healthcare reform hinges on integrating robust research into policy frameworks.
Dr. Mukhtar emphasized the transformative power of research in addressing healthcare challenges. “Data-driven insights are crucial for informed policymaking,” he noted. “Nigeria has the potential to lead in healthcare innovation, particularly through partnerships that leverage the expertise of both local and diaspora researchers.”
Njide Ndili highlighted the urgency of collaboration. “Bridging the gap between research and policy is essential for achieving UHC,” she said. “This symposium provides a platform for stakeholders across sectors to share knowledge, align strategies, and drive meaningful change. Through these partnerships, we can move the needle towards achieving UHC for all Nigerians. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a more accessible, equitable, and sustainable healthcare system.”
Emphasizing the urgent need for healthcare innovation, she stated: “Integrating research with policy is essential for driving meaningful change. We must bridge the gap between Nigeria’s wealth of research and the policies needed to improve healthcare outcomes.”
Insights from Ghana: A Model for Digital Health Innovation
The event featured presentations and discussions across three key themes: the need to link research findings with policy to achieve UHC, strategies for improving the quality of care through leadership and regulatory frameworks, and using innovative tools to enhance health outcomes. These sessions highlighted the critical role of evidence-based policymaking, leadership, and technology in addressing Nigeria’s healthcare challenges.
One of the event’s highlights was a presentation by Prof. Gordon Abekah-Nkrumah of the University of Ghana Business School. He detailed the impact of Ghana’s CLAIM-it system, a digital tool for managing health insurance claims. “CLAIM-it has streamlined administrative processes and accelerated reimbursements, providing valuable lessons for Nigeria’s healthcare modernization,” Prof. Abekah-Nkrumah explained.
Collaborations Driving Change
Panel discussions explored themes such as improving care quality through regulatory frameworks and leveraging digital tools to enhance healthcare delivery. Dr. Ademola Dada, Chief Medical Director of Federal Medical Centre, Ebute Metta, shared successful initiatives that have reduced maternal and infant mortality. Meanwhile, Dr. Nneka Okekearu of the Enterprise Development Centre highlighted the importance of breaking down silos between public and private sectors to achieve UHC.
Key Takeaways and Future Directions
The symposium emphasized the urgent need for:
As Nigeria strives to achieve UHC, the symposium highlighted the power of partnerships and innovation in driving progress. By fostering collaboration between stakeholders and integrating cutting-edge research into policy, Nigeria can build a healthcare system that delivers quality, equitable care for all.
