ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast — Health authorities in Ivory Coast have taken a significant step toward improving access to the country’s universal health coverage program. The program, known locally by its French acronym CMU, has faced criticism since its inception in 2019 due to difficulties participants encounter when accessing benefits.
The Challenge of Universal Health Coverage
Ivory Coast is one of the few countries in West Africa that offers a universal health program. The CMU aims to cover 70% of citizens’ healthcare costs for a monthly fee of 1,000 West African CFA francs (approximately $1.65). However, despite being operational for five years, less than half of the population has enrolled.
Addressing Glitches and Improving Access
Many participants who managed to enroll reported glitches. For instance, vouchers issued at hospitals, intended to provide access to medicine, were later not accepted at pharmacies, leaving patients to pay out of pocket. To tackle these challenges, Ivory Coast has introduced mobile enrollment centers. These centers, strategically placed in markets and remote neighborhoods, allow Ivorians to sign up for the program and receive cards on-site. With these cards, they can immediately access care at hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies across the country.
Progress and the Way Forward
From 2019 until this year, only 13 million people (40% of the population) were able to enroll. Health Minister Pierre Dimba emphasized that the mobile centers aim to reach those who have been unable to sign up due to reasons such as long working hours. By adopting a method similar to the successful COVID-19 vaccination campaign, Ivory Coast hopes to expand enrollment and ensure better healthcare access for its citizens.
