Pfizer, a global pharmaceutical company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Health Insurance Agency (NHIA) towards improving patients’ access to innovative antibiotics.
Speaking during the ceremony Monday in Abuja, Olayinka Subair, Pfizer West Africa Country Manager, said the partnership is a significant milestone for infectious diseases and antimicrobial stewardship programs in Nigeria.
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He said it would address key affordability challenges that contribute to high morbidity and mortality in critical care.
He said , “Accessibility and affordability of the right antibiotic when patients present to treatment centers could determine treatment outcomes and, ultimately, survival of patients. Similarly, limited options of antibiotics could lead to over-use of available antibiotics and consequently antimicrobial resistance.
“The partnership enables Pfizer, NHIA and healthcare institutions to engage in capability building initiatives that are designed to support the health insurance ecosystem.”
He said Pfizer is involved in research and innovative medicine and leads in disease management, adding that the vision of the firm is to bring breakthrough medicine in the hands of patients.
He said , “We are coming with a critical care products, managing infection and the firm will in future introduce other innovative medicines that are globally released for the treatment of various illness including cancer and other devastating health conditions.”
Prof. Mohammed Sambo, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NHIA, said the organization would work with Pfizer, to assiduously achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria.
He said NHIA is well positioned to accelerate access with the recent signing of the NHIA act which has expanded coverage for 83 million vulnerable Nigerians.
He said the agency would also continue to bring affordable and quality healthcare to all Nigerians, with the implementation of its ten-year strategic plan which is presently on course.
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