Nigeria’s Federal Government, deeply concerned about the persistently high maternal mortality rate, has embarked on a proactive initiative to mitigate this critical health challenge. A core element of this strategy is the Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEmONC) programme, designed to provide financial coverage for life-saving interventions related to the five primary causes of maternal deaths: hemorrhage, preeclampsia, sepsis, post-abortion complications, and obstructed labor. This program, operating under the broader umbrella of the Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMI), represents a significant investment in improving maternal health outcomes and ensuring access to essential obstetric care. As of the latest reports, the government has disbursed approximately N87 million to facilitate treatment for 2,819 women who have benefited from CEmONC services, a clear indication of the program’s expanding reach and impact.
The CEmONC program began as a pilot project in four healthcare facilities across Kano and Akwa Ibom states, strategically chosen to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the initiative. Following the successful pilot phase, the program was rapidly scaled up to include seven additional healthcare facilities in Bauchi, Sokoto, Borno, and Kebbi states. This expansion reflects the commitment to extending the program’s benefits to a wider population, particularly in regions with historically high maternal mortality rates. The data collection and verification process, crucial for transparency and accountability, indicates that 887 claims have been submitted, with 706 independently verified and 663 paid. The remaining claims are currently undergoing verification, ensuring the efficient and responsible allocation of resources.
The program’s ambitious national rollout involves engagement with 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. This broad scope reflects the government’s determination to address maternal mortality as a national priority. Data from these regions is being analyzed to prioritize areas with the greatest need and to ensure equitable distribution of resources. Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed with 42 referral facilities across all geopolitical zones, formalizing partnerships and facilitating seamless collaboration. The involvement of tertiary institutions further strengthens the program’s capacity, with 69 institutions deemed eligible for participation.
In a parallel effort to bolster maternal health services, the Federal Government is concurrently upgrading 774 CEmONC centers nationwide. This infrastructure development is intended to enhance access to emergency obstetric services, particularly in underserved local government areas where accessing life-saving procedures like caesarean sections has been a significant challenge. By removing financial barriers, the initiative aims to eliminate the tragic dilemma of women forgoing essential care due to cost. This ambitious upgrade project aligns with the overarching goal of providing universal access to quality maternal healthcare and underscores the government’s commitment to improving the nation’s health indicators.
A key element of the program’s success hinges on collaboration with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). This partnership aims to provide free services for women and children at participating CEmONC centers, further reducing financial barriers to care. By enrolling women in health insurance after resolving their immediate medical crises, the program ensures continued access to vital healthcare services, contributing to long-term well-being and promoting preventive care. This integrated approach not only addresses immediate emergencies but also fosters a healthier population by facilitating ongoing access to essential healthcare services.
The CEmONC program operates on the principle of expedited access to care, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede the prompt treatment of obstetric emergencies. The streamlined claims process ensures timely reimbursement for healthcare providers, reducing administrative burdens and incentivizing participation. The program’s success is evident in the growing number of women receiving treatment and the increasing number of claims being processed. The initial pilot phase has provided valuable insights, leading to program expansion and the refinement of operational procedures. This dynamic approach ensures continuous improvement and adaptability, maximizing the program’s effectiveness and impact on maternal health outcomes across Nigeria.
