The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has introduced major changes to its radiotherapy coverage to reduce financial barriers and improve access to quality cancer treatment for enrollees.
The reform, part of the Authority’s ongoing strategic purchasing initiatives, removes the previous ₦400,000 limit on radiotherapy and eliminates the former 50:50 cost-sharing arrangement.
Under the revised policy, the NHIA has adopted site-specific tariffs based on the treatment requirements and clinical protocols associated with different types of cancer.
The approved tariffs are:
- ₦900,000 for breast, rectum, anal, cervix/uterus, soft tissue and bone cancers.
- ₦1 million for prostate and spine cancers.
- ₦1.1 million for primary brain, lung, oesophageal and stomach cancers.
- ₦1.2 million for head and neck cancers.
- ₦850,000 for metastatic cancers.
The new tariff structure takes immediate effect, with HMOs, NHIA-accredited healthcare providers and radiotherapy centres directed to comply with the revised provisions and ensure uninterrupted treatment for eligible enrollees.
According to the NHIA, the reform is intended to strengthen financial protection, minimise interruptions in cancer treatment and ensure that patients can receive appropriate radiotherapy without being constrained by the previous coverage limit.
The Authority said the new approach also reflects its commitment to improving the quality and accessibility of specialised healthcare while advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across Nigeria.
By aligning radiotherapy tariffs with the specific requirements of different cancer conditions, the NHIA aims to make cancer care more responsive, sustainable, and financially accessible to Nigerians enrolled in the national health insurance system.
