Under Zambia’s Ministry of Health, the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) has begun extending free NHIS coverage to poor and vulnerable populations. This aims to provide financial risk protection to those who can’t afford the scheme and are at risk of catastrophic health expenditures.
Project Scope and Beneficiaries
- Under this project, 16,000 households from seven districts-Lusaka, Kafue, Chongwe, Kabwe, Ndola, Kitwe, and Kasempa will be registered on the NHIS.
- The Global Fund grant covers the contributions of these households and each household can enroll up to seven members, resulting in 112,000 beneficiaries.
- The initial phase of this project has begun with the registration of beneficiaries in Ndola District, Copperbelt Province.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
- Registered members and their families will access free healthcare services at any NHIMA-accredited health facility across Zambia.
- These beneficiaries will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package under the NHIS without any out-of-pocket expenses, ensuring enhanced access to health services without financial hardship.
- Both public and private NHIMA-accredited healthcare providers will deliver these services.
By linking NHIS with the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) program, the Zambian government is making strides toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and integrated comprehensive social protection, aligning with the Social Protection Floors and the 8th National Development Plan. This initiative ensures no one is left behind.
