TB, HIV Patients in Kwara to Get Health Insurance

Starting June 12, the Kwara State Health Insurance Agency (KWHIA) will commence the enrollment of individuals living with Tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS into the state’s health insurance schem

The announcement was made by Dr. Olubunmi Jetawo-Winter, Executive Secretary of KWHIA, during a stakeholder meeting held in Ilorin on Wednesday. The move is aimed at expanding access to healthcare services across all 16 local government areas of the state.

Bridging the Healthcare Coverage Gap

Dr. Jetawo-Winter emphasized that while many affected individuals benefit from donor-funded programs targeting TB and HIV/AIDS, they are often left without coverage for other pressing health conditions.

“Because of their ongoing medication and compromised immunity, these individuals are more vulnerable to other illnesses and need more inclusive healthcare services,” she explained.

Under the new arrangement, the insurance will cover not just TB and HIV/AIDS treatment, but also a broader range of health needs including malaria, infections, maternal care, and surgical procedures.

Annual Renewal and Enrollment Procedures

The health insurance will be renewed annually, and eligible individuals are expected to register at the same health facilities where they currently receive treatment for TB and HIV/AIDS.

Jetawo-Winter urged patients to take advantage of the program, stressing its potential to ease the burden of managing multiple health challenges.

In support of the initiative, Mr. Seun Ogunniyi of the House of Representatives Committee on Health and Environment applauded the agency’s proactive strategy and called for widespread public awareness to ensure smooth implementation across the state.

About KWHIA and Health Coverage Plans

KWHIA operates under the state’s “Kwara Care” health initiative, designed to deliver accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to residents.

The agency offers three health insurance plans:

• Informal Health Plan – ₦15,500 annually for self-employed individuals such as artisans and farmers.
• Formal Health Plan – ₦18,000 annually for government and private-sector workers.
• Equity Health Plan – A subsidized plan aimed at low-income earners and vulnerable populations.

To enroll, residents must visit a pre-enrollment center, submit required documentation, complete payment (if applicable), receive a health card, and wait for activation to access services.

In a bid to extend its reach, the agency recently opened three regional offices in January 2025 to serve Kwara’s three geopolitical zones, targeting 250,000 beneficiaries.