…As SUNU Health commits to HMO-Provider relationship
Stakeholders in the Nigerian health insurance and Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) ecosystem recently converged on Port Harcourt to chart a way forward towards a more robust and responsive healthcare system in Nigeria.
The stakeholders converged at the National Providers Forum (NPF) 2025, which is part of NHIA regulatory requirement for accredited HMOs to foster critical dialogue and laid the groundwork for significant advancements in the nation’s healthcare sector.
Themed ‘Bridging the Gap: Building a Stronger HMO-Provider Relationship,’ the forum brought together a diverse group of healthcare stakeholders to deepen collaborative growth and excellence in service delivery.
Patrick Korie, managing director, SUNU Health, stated that the forum allowed stakeholders to critically address common challenges such as payment delays, lack of transparency, and inadequate reimbursement rates that often strain partnerships.
“Crucially, the discussions highlighted the significant advantages of a strong collaboration, emphasizing how a good HMO-Provider relationship directly leads to improved patient care, increased operational efficiency by streamlining processes, and ultimately enhanced credibility for the entire healthcare system.”
He disclosed that SUNU Health has embraced new technology for communication and claims submission and will routinely conduct continuous data analytics to identify areas for improvement.
“At SUNU, which means ‘our own,’ humanity is at the centre of all our initiatives. Therefore, building a stronger relationship between us and our providers is not just an objective; it is essential for delivering the quality healthcare services our communities deserve.”
Faith Nwachi, chief operating officer, SUNU Health, emphasized the significance of partnership in healthcare delivery. She stated that the firm remains committed to empowering its providers with the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to deliver exceptional care.
“The National Providers Forum is more than just a gathering; it’s a testament to our belief in the power of partnership. The insights gained today will undoubtedly fuel our collective efforts to elevate healthcare standards across Nigeria and drive sustainable industry growth.”
Discussions at the forum included innovative healthcare delivery models, leveraging technology for improved patient outcomes, navigating regulatory landscapes, and strategies for sustainable growth in a dynamic environment.
The forum concluded with a reinforced sense of collaboration and a shared vision for the future of Nigerian healthcare. Participants lauded the initiative for its relevance and the opportunity it provided to network, and collectively share best practices among stakeholders.
