In Nigeria, health insurance is an important aspect of healthcare financing and is aimed at providing financial protection to individuals and families against the cost of medical expenses.
The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is the regulatory body responsible for the implementation and administration of health insurance in Nigeria.
Here are some key points about health insurance in Nigeria:
Health Insurance in Nigeria
- The NHIS was established in 1999 and is responsible for regulating health insurance activities in Nigeria. It operates various health insurance programs to cater to different segments of the population.
- The NHIS offers different health insurance programs, including the Formal Sector Social Health Insurance Program, the Informal Sector Social Health Insurance Program, the Voluntary Contributors Social Health Insurance Program, and the Tertiary Institution Social Health Insurance Program.
- Health insurance coverage in Nigeria typically includes a range of healthcare services such as hospitalization, consultations, laboratory tests, medications, and surgeries, among others. The extent of coverage may vary depending on the specific insurance program and the premium paid.
- Eligible individuals and families can enroll in a health insurance program by registering with the NHIS or through their employers, where applicable. Some programs may also allow voluntary contributions for those who do not have access to employer-based insurance.
- Health insurance premiums in Nigeria are typically paid either by employers on behalf of their employees or by individuals themselves. Premiums vary depending on the insurance program and the level of coverage chosen.
- Health insurance in Nigeria usually operates through a network of accredited healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Policyholders are required to seek medical services from these accredited providers to be eligible for reimbursement.
- Health insurance coverage in Nigeria still faces several challenges, including limited access to quality healthcare facilities, low insurance penetration, inadequate funding, and a lack of awareness and understanding about the benefits of health insurance among the population.
What is travel health insurance?
Travel health insurance, also known as travel medical insurance or international health insurance, is a type of insurance that provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical treatment, and other related services while traveling abroad.
It is designed to protect individuals from unforeseen medical costs and emergencies that may occur during their travels outside their home country.
Here are some key points about travel health insurance:
1. Medical Coverage
Travel health insurance typically covers a range of medical expenses, including hospitalization, doctor visits, emergency medical treatment, surgery, prescription medications, and medical evacuation if necessary. The coverage may vary depending on the specific insurance plan and the premium paid.
2. Emergency Assistance
Travel health insurance often includes emergency assistance services, such as 24/7 medical helpline, coordination of medical care, and assistance with locating healthcare providers and facilities in the destination country.
3. Trip Interruption/Cancellation
Some travel health insurance plans may also offer coverage for trip interruption or cancellation due to unforeseen events, such as illness, injury, or the death of a family member.
4. Travel Benefits
In addition to medical coverage, travel health insurance may provide additional benefits like coverage for lost luggage, trip delay or missed connections, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains in case of death, and personal liability coverage.
5. Duration and Coverage Area
Travel health insurance policies can be purchased for a specific trip or as an annual policy for frequent travelers. The coverage area can vary, with options for worldwide coverage or coverage limited to specific regions or countries.
6. Pre-existing Conditions
Travel health insurance may have limitations or exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions. It’s important to carefully review the policy terms and conditions to understand any restrictions related to pre-existing conditions.
7. Premiums and Deductibles
The cost of travel health insurance depends on factors such as the traveler’s age, destination, duration of travel, and the level of coverage desired. Deductibles, which are the amount the policyholder must pay out-of-pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in, may also apply.
Top 10 travel/international health insurance in Nigeria and their prices
The cost of travel health insurance depends on factors such as the traveler’s age, destination, duration of travel, and the level of coverage desired.
For this reason, getting the prices of the top 10 travel health insurance listed here is not possible.
Contacting them directly to inquire about their travel health insurance offerings and pricing will be more helpful.
Here are the top 10 International health insurance in Nigeria:
- LeadWay Travel Insurance
- AIICO travel insurance
- NEM Insurance plc
- Coronation Insurance
- Allianz Care
- Aetna International
- AXA Global Healthcare
- Mutual benefit travel insurance
- Custodian and Allied Insurance
- Cornerstone Insurance
1. Leadway Travel Insurance
Leadway Assurance Company Limited is a Nigerian insurance company that provides travel insurance coverage for different types of trips.
Their coverage includes emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, personal accidents, and loss of personal property. For more information on their travel insurance, you can visit their website or contact them directly.
2. AIICO Travel Insurance
AIICO Insurance Plc is another Nigerian insurance company that offers travel insurance plans.
Their coverage includes emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation, personal accidents, trip cancellation or interruption, and travel delays.
For more information on their travel insurance plans, you can visit their website or contact them directly.
3. NEM Insurance PLC
NEM Insurance PLC is a Nigerian insurance company that provides a range of insurance policies, including travel insurance.
Their travel insurance policies typically cover medical emergencies, personal accidents, and loss or damage to luggage.
To learn more about their travel insurance plans, you can visit their website or contact them directly.
4. Coronation Insurance
Coronation Insurance is another Nigerian insurance company that offers travel insurance as part of its product offerings.
Their travel insurance policies cover medical expenses, emergency medical evacuations, and trip cancellations or interruptions due to unexpected events.
You can visit their website or contact them directly for more information on their travel insurance plans.
5. Allianz Care
Allianz Care is a global health insurance provider with a Nigerian arm that offers travel health insurance plans.
Their coverage includes emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and personal property loss.
For more information on their travel health insurance plans, you can visit their website or contact them directly.
6. Aetna International
Aetna International is a global health insurance provider that offers travel health insurance plans.
Their coverage includes emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and personal property loss.
For more information on their travel health insurance plans, you can visit their website or contact them directly.
7. AXA Mansard
AXA Mansard is a health insurance provider that offers travel health insurance plans. Their coverage includes emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation, and trip cancellation or interruption.
For more information on their travel health insurance plans, you can visit their website or contact them directly.
8. Mutual Benefit Travel Insurance
Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc is a Nigerian insurance company that offers travel insurance plans.
Their coverage includes emergency medical expenses, repatriation of mortal remains, accidental death and disability, and trip cancellation or interruption
9. Custodian and Allied Insurance
Custodian and Allied Insurance is a Nigerian insurance company that provides a range of coverage options, including travel insurance.
Their travel insurance plans cover expenses related to emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation, accidental death, and loss of personal property.
To learn more about their travel insurance options, you can visit their website or contact them directly.
10. Cornerstone Insurance
Cornerstone Insurance is another Nigerian insurance company that offers a range of coverage options, including travel insurance.
Their travel insurance plans typically include coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, and loss of personal property.
For more information on their travel insurance plans, you can visit their website or reach out to them directly.
How much is travel health insurance in Nigeria
Generally, the cost of travel health insurance in Nigeria can range from a few thousand Naira to tens of thousands of Naira per trip.
To get an accurate cost estimate for travel health insurance in Nigeria, it’s best to contact the insurance providers directly and request a quote or use online comparison websites to compare prices and coverage options.
How to get health insurance in Nigeria
To get health insurance in Nigeria, you can follow these general steps:
1. Research
Start by researching different health insurance providers in Nigeria. Look for reputable companies that offer health insurance plans that suit your needs. Consider factors such as coverage options, a network of healthcare providers, premiums, and customer reviews.
2. Assess Your Needs
Determine your healthcare needs and priorities. Consider factors like your age, medical history, anticipated healthcare expenses, and any specific coverage requirements you may have, such as maternity services or pre-existing conditions.
3. Contact Insurance Providers
Reach out to the insurance providers you have shortlisted. Contact their customer service or visit their websites to obtain detailed information about their health insurance plans. Inquire about coverage details, premium costs, network hospitals, claim procedures, and any other relevant information.
4. Compare Plans
Compare the health insurance plans offered by different providers. Evaluate their coverage, exclusions, waiting periods, additional benefits, premium costs, and any limitations on pre-existing conditions. This will help you determine which plan aligns best with your needs and budget.
5. Consult with Insurance Brokers
If you find it challenging to navigate the insurance options, consider seeking assistance from insurance brokers. They can provide guidance, help you understand the available plans, and assist in choosing the most suitable health insurance policy based on your requirements.
6. Apply for Health Insurance
Once you have chosen a health insurance plan, complete the application process. This typically involves filling out an application form, providing necessary personal and medical information, and submitting any required documentation. Some insurance providers may also require a medical examination.
7. Review and Understand the Policy
Carefully review the terms and conditions of the health insurance policy before signing it. Understand the coverage limits, exclusions, waiting periods, deductibles, co-payments, and claim procedures. Seek clarification from the insurance provider if you have any questions or concerns.
8. Make Premium Payments
Once your health insurance application is approved, you will need to pay the premiums as per the agreed terms. Set up the payment method specified by the insurance provider, such as bank transfer, online payment, or direct debit.
9. Obtain Health Insurance Card
After payment, you will typically receive a health insurance card or policy document. This card serves as proof of your health insurance coverage and is usually required when seeking medical services.
What next?
Travel insurance policies may vary depending on the provider, policy, and various other factors.
It’s recommended that you carefully review the terms and conditions of any travel insurance policy before purchasing it to ensure that it meets your needs and budget.