NHIF reinstates 178 drugs, adds four others

TANZANIA: The National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) has reinstated 178 drugs and added four others that were listed in the National Medical Treatment Guidelines but were not included in the National Essential Medicine List (NEMLIT).

A statement issued and signed by the NHIF acting Public Relations Manager, Grace Michael, said the decision was made following the review of the NEMLIT by the Ministry of Health on April 30, 2024. The review incorporated various aspects, including combination, structure, and potency.

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The addendum was signed to include these drugs in its 2023 bundle.

However, the statement highlighted that the move has broadened the scope of drug accessibility, aligning with the country’s treatment guidelines.

“Due to these improvements, the National Health Insurance Fund assures its members that medical services will continue to be available at all registered facilities nationwide,” the statement added.

The statement also calls on service providers to contact NHIF offices in case of challenges and urges members to reach out to the NHIF Customer Service Center if they encounter difficulties accessing services.