ASHIA Warns Desk Officers Against Overcharging Enrollees
By Chisom Okafor
The Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) has warned desk officers at accredited health facilities to desist from overcharging enrollees, emphasizing that the agency’s premium remains ₦12,500.
The agency’s Managing Director, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, who stated this during a meeting with desk officers at the ASHIA headquarters in Awka, warned that any officer found guilty of extortion would face penalties.
He urged the officers to familiarize with ASHIA’s operational guidelines to ensure smooth implementation of the scheme.
Dr. Onyemaechi also cautioned against the unauthorized administration of branded drugs to enrollees as a means of extorting money. He emphasized that unbranded drugs are the approved standard under the health insurance policy and that branded drugs should only be given with proper explanation and the enrollee’s consent.
He further warned hospitals against providing services beyond their ASHIA accreditation, stressing that such practices must stop or offenders would face consequences.
The ASHIA MD encouraged desk officers to be attentive to enrollees and ensure that they do not pay out-of-pocket for services covered under the scheme.
Regarding pre-authorization codes, he advised officers to always submit accurate diagnoses when making requests to avoid unnecessary denials.
