The Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KSCHMA) has expanded its health insurance coverage to include vulnerable groups such as inmates in correctional centres, people living with HIV, and patients suffering from hypertension.

According to the Executive Secretary of the agency, Rahila Aliyu-Mukhtar, the initiative is aimed at reducing out-of-pocket healthcare spending and improving access to essential medical services for disadvantaged residents in the state.The agency revealed that more than 6,000 hypertensive patients have already been enrolled under the programme.These beneficiaries now have better access to medications and medical investigations that would have otherwise been too expensive for them.

The agency noted that this intervention has contributed to reducing complications linked to hypertension across the state, with reports suggesting improved health outcomes among enrolled patients.In addition, over 6,000 people living with HIV have also been enrolled.

While antiretroviral drugs are largely supported through donor funding, KSCHMA explained that patients still require treatment for other health conditions such as malaria, typhoid, diabetes, and hypertension, which the insurance scheme helps to cover.

The agency also announced plans to enrol 6,000 tuberculosis patients under the vulnerable group programme, stating that TB patients often require broader healthcare support beyond their primary treatment.

Notably, all inmates in correctional facilities across Kano State have also been enrolled, an initiative described as the first of its kind in Nigeria.

The programme has received commendation from the Controller-General of Corrections, and other states have reportedly shown interest in studying Kano’s model for possible adoption.KSCHMA says it remains committed to expanding healthcare access and strengthening social protection for vulnerable populations.