Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has approved an increase in the monthly capitation to healthcare facilities from ₦500 to ₦750 per person.
This new rate is the highest capitation paid by any state health insurance agency in Northern Nigeria, surpassing those of neighbouring states.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, during the 6th GoHealth Provider Forum.
Alongside the capitation increase, the drug price list has been revised upwards by 30% to account for inflation, while professional tariffs remain unchanged.
With this adjustment, healthcare providers are expected to see a significant boost in revenue. Dr. Abubakar Musa, the agency’s team lead, noted that previously, facilities incurred a loss of ₦1 for every drug administered to GoHealth patients. However, with the revised drug prices, facilities will now achieve a 20% profit margin compared to GODMA’s sales prices.
He stated, “We have surpassed the GODMA sales price by 20%. The price we are giving you now is higher than the price they asked you to sell.”
Dr. Abubakar also emphasized the need for facilities to improve service delivery, warning that “As to whom much is given, much is expected.” He urged healthcare providers to purchase their drugs from GODMA to ensure better value for money.
Dr. Habu Dahiru highlighted the increased awareness among patients regarding their rights. “Patients are now more aware of their rights and can take hospitals to court when they are provided with substandard medical care,” he warned.
He further advised facility managers to ensure the highest standard of medical care to avoid having their licenses revoked and facing prosecution. The state is committed to holding healthcare providers accountable, as stated by Dairus Samson, PRO of GoHealth.
