A doctor has issuing a 24-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government to ban Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) in the country, alleged that the current HMO system is failing patients and healthcare providers.
He stressed that the system has become a major obstacle to quality medical care, claimed that these challenges have placed financial pressure on hospitals while limiting access to timely and adequate treatment for patients.
According to the him, HMOs often delay payments to hospitals, impose low reimbursement rates, and create administrative hurdles that make it difficult for healthcare facilities to operate effectively.
The call has generated mixed reactions among healthcare professionals and the public. While some medical practitioners supported the demand, insisting that reforms are urgently needed within the HMO system, others argued that banning HMOs outright could disrupt healthcare access for millions of Nigerians who rely on health insurance.
As discussions continue, many stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to carefully review the concerns raised and engage all parties involved before taking any action. They stressed the need for comprehensive reforms that improve transparency, protect patients, and ensure fair compensation for healthcare providers rather than an outright ban.
