Landscape Analysis of the Engagement of Private Sector In Achieving Universal Health Coverage In Nigeria and the Policy Implications

Global efforts in health over the last decade have been towards achieving universal coverage for all populations. Quality health service and financial protection are vital component in the implementation of UHC in any country, though its specific framework differs depending on the context of the country. Public sector involvement in the achievement of this cannot be over emphasized but the role of the Private Health sector in achieving UHC in developing countries has rarely been well understood. This is because in most low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) which include Nigeria, the sector is generally large, poorly documented, and very heterogeneous, and extremely profit oriented. This study used the landscape analysis approach which examines an existing system and the multiple factors of the system which can indicate preparedness of the system for an intervention. This landscape analysis is aimed at exploring the existing structure of Private sector in healthcare in Nigeria and how the structure shapes the sector’s engagement in the achievement of UHC in Nigeria. It explored the various groups that make the Private Health sector in Nigeria, their characteristics and how these characters shape their involvement in the progress towards universal health coverage in Nigeria. Furthermore, it used a framework to link systemic factors in Nigeria with the Private health sector and UHC in Nigeria. Finally, it recommends a policy strategy and feasibility on how the Private Health sector can be integrated into the health system to harness its benefits for the progress towards UHC in Nigeria.