By Francis Chipalo
National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) has warned that it will not take kind any health facility not adhering to laid down regulations and those offering poor services to the public.
Meanwhile, the authority has signed an MOU with Ecobank in an effort to enhance service provision technologically.
Responding to questions on public complaints against some institutions that are reportedly abrogating regulations under NHIMA, authority’s director general Michael Njapau warned that any facility found wanting would be penalized.
Njapau has since called on citizens not to hesitate and report such institutions to the authority for action.
“We have a team of inspectors, but that is not enough, so we urge the public to report such facilities that are turning them away,” Njapau said.
Njapau also disclosed that the authority had previously sanctioned institutions found wanting, further warning that it shall not hesitate to penalized erring facilities.
Meanwhile, Njapau said the MOU (NHIMA – Ecobank) smart payment plan which primarily target more of the informal sector members to make their contributions, is not just a technological advancement, but a reaffirmation of the authority’s commitment to serve Zambians in an efficient manner.
Njapau explained that the new payment platform developed in partnership with the bank serves as a reliable, convenient, and secure gateway for contributions and payments into the national health insurance fund.
“Through this platform, we aim to improve accessibility to NHIMA services by eliminating geographic and logistical barriers, enhance transparency and traceability of funds, thereby strengthening financial accountability,” Njapau said.
He added that the partnership will also promote timely contributions, as well as reduce defaults, which ensures the sustainability of the national insurance scheme.
Speaking at the same event, Ecobank managing director Aina Moore said the bank is committed to offering multiple secure payment channels which allows employers, businesses and individuals to contribute effortlessly.
“Through this collaboration, Ecobank and NHIMA are not only strengthening the healthcare ecosystem, but also reinforcing our commitment to financial inclusion,” she said.
She added that the success of any health insurance scheme relies on efficient contributions management, further stating that her bank takes pride in offering a reliable solution that will streamline payments, enhance transparency, and improve efficiency.