
In an effort to boost enrollment and address access issues, Ivory Coast has launched mobile enrollment centers for its national health insurance program, the CMU (Couverture Maladie Universelle).
The program, introduced in 2019, offers affordable healthcare access to citizens but has faced criticism for glitches and difficulties using benefits.
While Ivory Coast boasts one of the few universal health programs in West Africa, participation remains low. Despite a monthly fee of just $1.65, only 40%, or about 13 million Ivorians, are currently enrolled.
The new mobile centers aim to bridge this gap by bringing registration directly to markets and remote areas, particularly targeting individuals who work long hours and struggle with traditional enrollment methods.
The CMU program has been marred by reports of malfunctioning vouchers issued at hospitals.
These vouchers, intended to cover medication costs at pharmacies, are sometimes rejected, leaving patients to pay out of pocket.
Residents like Bruno Agnissan recounted how his voucher for his son’s malaria treatment was refused by pharmacies, forcing him to shoulder the cost. Similar concerns were raised regarding card acceptance at hospitals.
Despite the initial hiccups, some residents remain optimistic.
Martin Abou, a first-time enrollee for himself and his family, expressed hope for the program’s potential.
Health Minister Pierre Dimba echoed this sentiment, aiming to transform the CMU into a basic insurance plan for all Ivorians, with private insurance serving as a complementary option.
The government has set an ambitious target of enrolling 20 million citizens by year’s end.