Kano Expands Health Insurance for Inmates, HIV and Hypertensive Patients
The Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency has expanded its healthcare insurance programme to cover vulnerable residents, including inmates in correctional centres, people living with HIV, and hypertensive patients across the state.
The agency’s Executive Secretary, Dr Rahila Aliyu-Mukhtar, revealed that more than 6,000 hypertensive patients have already been enrolled to help them access medications and medical investigations they previously could not afford.
According to her, the programme has helped reduce health complications linked to hypertension in Kano State.
Support for HIV and Tuberculosis Patients
The agency also confirmed that over 6,000 people living with HIV are benefiting from the scheme. While donor agencies provide antiretroviral drugs, the insurance programme helps beneficiaries receive treatment for other illnesses such as malaria, typhoid, diabetes, and hypertension.
In addition, plans have been concluded to enrol 6,000 tuberculosis patients under the vulnerable healthcare programme to ensure they receive broader medical support beyond TB medications.
Kano Becomes First State to Insure Inmates
The healthcare agency also enrolled inmates in correctional centres across Kano State, making it the first initiative of its kind in Nigeria. The move reportedly earned commendation from the national correctional authorities, while other states have shown interest in studying Kano’s implementation model.
“We received a nationally generated report indicating that Kano State has reduced complications arising from hypertension,” Dr Rahila Aliyu-Mukhtar .
How Residents Can Benefit from the Scheme
Residents who fall under vulnerable groups can benefit through the following steps:
Visit the nearest government health facility or primary healthcare centre in Kano State.
Present identification or medical records showing health conditions such as hypertension, HIV, or tuberculosis.
Complete the enrolment process under the vulnerable healthcare programme.
Receive a healthcare insurance identification linked to approved hospitals and clinics.
Access medical consultations, tests, medications, and treatment at reduced or no cost depending on eligibility.
Residents are encouraged to contact the agency or visit official state health centres for guidance.
The Kano State healthcare insurance expansion is expected to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses and improve healthcare access for thousands of vulnerable residents. The initiative may also serve as a model for other Nigerian states seeking to strengthen healthcare support systems.
For more information, visit Kano State Government and National Health Insurance Authority Nigeria
