Did you know Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is still grappling with major healthcare challenges, even as its economy grows? While most of the focus tends to be on treating illnesses, preventive healthcare is actually the most cost-effective way to improve health outcomes for everyone.
Here’s the thing: Nigeria currently spends less than 5% of its health budget on preventive services. But studies show that investing in prevention could reduce the disease burden by up to 70% for common conditions like malaria, respiratory infections, and chronic diseases—which are responsible for most deaths in the country.
So, What’s Holding Us Back?
The road to better preventive healthcare isn’t easy. Here are some of the biggest hurdles:
– Infrastructure gaps, especially in rural areas where nearly half of Nigerians live.
– Knowledge gaps—many people aren’t aware of basic preventive measures.
– Cost barriers that make services like immunizations and screenings out of reach for many.
– Cultural beliefs that sometimes clash with modern health practices.
– Workforce shortages, with only one doctor for every 5,000 Nigerians.
What Can Be Done?
To turn things around, here are a few ideas for policymakers:
1. Increase funding for preventive services to at least 15% of the health budget.
2. Expand the Community Health Worker program to reach more rural areas.
3. Add preventive health education to school curriculums.
4. Build public-private partnerships to improve healthcare infrastructure.
5. Offer tax incentives to businesses that support employee wellness.
Introducing iPatient.app:
I am excited to share something special today —a fresh, innovative way to make health insurance accessible, engaging, and even fun for young Nigerians.
The Problem We’re Solving
Right now, only 5% of Nigerians have health insurance. That leaves millions at risk of facing huge medical bills when they get sick. For young adults juggling careers, education, and personal goals, health insurance often feels like a luxury they can’t afford. But here’s the good news: up to 70% of common health issues in Nigeria can be prevented or managed early with the right care. And that’s where iPatient comes in.
Imagine if your everyday actions could help you earn health insurance. Sounds cool, right? That’s exactly what iPatient does.
Our app lets you earn points by completing ordinary activities—like learning about health insurance, taking quizzes, completing surveys wellness, or even attending health sessions. You can then redeem those points for health insurance coverage and other wellness rewards.
Our Mission
At iPatient, we believe preventive healthcare should be:
– Accessible to everyone, no matter their income.
– Engaging—health shouldn’t feel intimidating or boring.
– Empowering through education and community support.
– Rewarding—because healthy choices deserve to be celebrated.
What’s Next?
In our next newsletter, we’ll dive into the details of how the points system works and the kinds of activities that’ll help you earn coverage. Stay tuned!
Join the Movement
We’re in the final stages of development and plan to launch in select cities by June 2025. Want to be among the first to try iPatient? Join our waiting list today!
