The Senate has urged the federal government to expand its coverage on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to accommodate Nigerians with chronic kidney disease.
It also appealed to stakeholders to launch extensive public awareness campaigns on kidney disease prevention, risks and unavailable treatment.
The Senate’s resolutions were sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central) under personal explanation during Tuesday’s plenary.
In his presentation, Yar’Adua said recent statistics from the Nigerian Association of Nephrology revealed that 25 million Nigerians are living with kidney diseases.
According to him, chronic kidney disease constitutes about 40 per cent of cases seen in the country’s tertiary hospitals and is a significant contributor to daily hospital admissions.
He added, “The cost of dialysis sessions in Nigeria ranges from 20,000 to 50,000 per session leading to low adherent rates due to financial constraints.
“The alternative to dialysis, which is kidney transplant is financially unattainable for many with the cost exceeding N6.5m.
“The National Health Insurance Scheme in Nigeria provides limited coverage for chronic kidney disease patients, highlighting the need for expanded insurance coverage to support this treatment.
“Other states need to be taken to enhance kidney treatment facilities across the country.
“It is imperative that we act strictly to address the increasing rate of kidney disease by increasing awareness, improving treatment facilities, expanding insurance coverage and supporting infection prevention measures.”
The lawmaker reiterated that the NHIS can help to enhance the quality of life of millions affected by chronic kidney disease.