Stephanie is a young professional working hard to advance in her career while also dealing with a chronic illness. A year ago, she got a job as the Marketing and Communications Executive for a pharmaceutical company. It was with joy, relief, and other emotions that Stephanie could not put into words that she read through the employment letter, which stated that she was entitled to a health plan, among other benefits.
Prior to this, she had worked in four different companies where staff did not have an HMO, hence her excitement. During these years, over 50% of Stephanie’s income went into managing her illness; the rest was for her upkeep and her parents’. The perk that topped Stephanie’s list was that she no longer had to pay hospital bills out of her pocket. And yes, she could now save more!
Stephanie did her best at work and spent time developing her skills through short online courses. About a year later, she started experiencing difficulties refilling her prescriptions, as she required daily medication to manage her condition. Her hospital had reviewed the prices of her medications more than four times in six months, leading to constant negotiations between her HMO and the hospital. Consequently, whenever she needed a refill, she found herself in long conversations with the contact centre.
Over the weekend, a week after a particularly challenging refill process, she visited her best friend, Jane, and poured out her heart. Jane teased Stephanie by reminding her of something she had said when she first started using her HMO:
"Jane, I know you are familiar with this HMO thing, but abeg let me speak my mind. See ehn, I remember last year in June, after I received my salary, I had to refill my medications and run some tests based on my doctor’s orders. I left the hospital with only ₦40,000 out of ₦100,000. I cried myself to sleep that night, but now, levels don change! I don’t even need to have money to receive care.”.
Stephanie acknowledged everything Jane pointed out but insisted that it didn’t justify her current experience. Jane pleaded with her to stay calm and listen.
*"The Nigerian economy is not smiling, and if one is not careful, one will lose friends and family all in the name of transferred aggression. Do you remember my friend who works with Health Keep HMO? She explained to me that it has not been easy for HMOs, as the agreed prices of medications and procedures in hospitals keep increasing by over 300% in some instances. On the other hand, HMOs are left to balance affordability for their members without being able to increase premiums by the same magnitude amidst the country’s challenging economic situation.
I understand both sides. The prices of foodstuffs change every three days—you sef know. I have stopped using my sunscreen because where the price is leading, I cannot follow. So, what am I saying? I am having similar issues with my HMO, but I have decided to focus on the benefits I enjoy and hope that things will get better in Nigeria. I am sure you have great things to say about yours too.”*
"Jane, Jane!!! I don’t understand if na pastor you be, a peacemaker, or a motivational speaker. Either way, thank you, babe."
"Well, in one year, I can’t lie—I have enjoyed top-notch services and amazing healthcare benefits with THT as my HMO. Whether I am in Lagos or elsewhere, I can access care—all I need is my membership card or details. I enjoy discounted gym access at one of the best gyms in the game, I-Fitness. And the benefit that tops the list for me is their wellness package! They provide on-site wellness checks, wellness webinars, and wellness newsletters to keep me informed about everything relevant to my health and well-being."
At this point, Jane cut Stephanie off. "You have started. Issokay, Ma." They both laughed.
