A leading Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), SUNU Health Nigeria Limited, has hosted the 2025 National Providers Forum (NPF).
The event, held on Wednesday, June 24, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, was themed Bridging the Gap: Building a Stronger HMO-Provider Relationship.
It brought together a diverse group of healthcare stakeholders, who discussed significant advancements in the nation’s healthcare sector.
A hallmark of this year’s forum was its inclusive approach. While many providers gathered physically in Port Harcourt, a significant number also participated virtually, joining online from across the country. This hybrid format ensured broader participation, allowing a wider array of voices and perspectives to contribute to the discussions, truly reflecting SUNU Health’s dedication to nationwide impact.
Discussions at the forum spanned a wide range of critical topics, including innovative healthcare delivery models, leveraging technology for improved patient outcomes, navigating regulatory landscapes, and strategies for sustainable growth in a dynamic environment. Interactive sessions and expert presentations provided attendees with actionable insights and fostered a spirit of shared learning and problem-solving.
In his keynote address, the Managing Director of SUNU Health, Dr Patrick Korie, emphasised “how a good HMO-Provider relationship directly leads to improved patient care, increased operational efficiency by streamlining processes, and ultimately enhanced credibility for the entire healthcare system.”
Underscoring the company’s commitment to responsiveness, he revealed that the organisation conducted a comprehensive survey with providers and clients to truly understand their perspectives.
According to him, this direct feedback has informed SUNU Health’s strategic decision to reorganize internal procedures to enhance partnerships.
He said key actions include establishing regular, transparent communication channels, disseminating clear guidelines, and committing to timely payments within a 30-day cycle for PHIS and NHIA, strictly adhering to operational guidelines.
The medical practitioner added that SUNU Health has embraced new technology for communication and claims submission and will routinely conduct continuous data analytics to identify areas for improvement. Concluding his remarks,
“At SUNU, which means ‘our own,’ humanity is at the centre of all our initiatives. Therefore, building a stronger relationship between us and our providers is not just an objective; it is essential for delivering the quality healthcare services our communities deserve,” he stated.
Also, the Chief Operating Officer of SUNU Health, Dr Faith Nwachi, emphasized the significance of partnership in healthcare.
“The National Providers Forum is more than just a gathering; it’s a testament to our belief in the power of partnership. We are committed to empowering our providers with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to deliver exceptional care.
“The insights gained today will undoubtedly fuel our collective efforts to elevate healthcare standards across Nigeria and drive sustainable industry growth.”
The NPF is part of NHIA regulatory requirement for accredited HMOs. It served as a crucial platform for engagement, designed to strengthen relationships with healthcare providers and discuss strategies for enhancing the quality and accessibility of medical services across Nigeria.
The forum concluded with a reinforced sense of collaboration and a shared vision for the future of Nigerian healthcare, as participants lauded the initiative for its relevance and the opportunity it provided to network, share best practices, and collectively chart a course towards a more robust and responsive healthcare system.
SUNU Health plans to leverage the outcomes and feedback from the NPF 2025 to refine its strategies, develop new support programs for its network, and continue advocating for policies that promote healthcare excellence.