Experts push for joint action to expand health insurance access in Uganda

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Government officials, private insurers, healthcare providers, and civil society representatives are calling for a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach to make health insurance accessible to all Ugandans.

The appeal was made during the Stakeholders Dialogue on Medical Insurance, where experts highlighted persistent barriers preventing large segments of the population, particularly those in rural and vulnerable communities, from accessing affordable and effective healthcare.

The experts stressed the need for collaboration between public and private sectors, including insurance companies, regulatory bodies, healthcare providers, and community organisations, to design and implement inclusive insurance solutions.

Kenbright Insurance CEO Ernest Barusya warned Ugandans about the financial risks of going without medical coverage.

“Many of our people are not insured, and that is not bravery.  They are just a step away from bankruptcy when medical bills come,” he cautioned, urging insurers, healthcare providers, regulators, and policymakers to drive initiatives that expand access to affordable and effective medical insurance.

He also highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare, urging citizens to monitor basic health indicators such as blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Early detection, he noted, can prevent costly treatments for chronic conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, and sickle cell complications.

Highlighting Uganda’s growing yet underdeveloped medical insurance sector, Barusya noted that while total premiums are projected to reach shs473 b this year, coverage remains limited, serving only about 510,000 people, roughly 1.1% of the population.

“Many Ugandans still go without insurance, relying on personal savings or borrowing to meet medical costs during emergencies. Accidents, chronic illnesses, and maternity care can be financially devastating without proper coverage,” Barusya said.

Comparing Uganda with its neighbours, Barusya noted that low insurance coverage contributes to high out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. While Rwanda boasts over 90% coverage, less than 2% of Ugandans have medical insurance, leaving citizens to shoulder 41% of healthcare costs themselves.

The forum, organised by the Uganda Insurers Association (UIA), convened insurers, healthcare providers, regulators, and patient advocates to explore strategies for improving insurance uptake and building public trust.

Judy Mugoya, the CEO at Smart Applications International Uganda Limited, highlighted the transformative impact of technology on claims processing.

“Integration with hospital systems has reduced delays, cut costly paperwork, and enabled real-time analytics. Faster claims payments ensure patients are treated promptly, while doctors are compensated on time, strengthening trust across the sector,” she said.

Her views are shared with Jonan Kisakye, UIA CEO, who highlighted that products unveiled like Smart Analytics with the ability to study trends using existing data and Smart Insure offer a comprehensive end-to-end scheme management system enabling self-service capabilities and real-time insights.

‘Partnerships with government ministries and other stakeholders to ensure policies are practical, well-informed and supportive of industry growth remain crucial, and we must uphold them,” Kisakye said.

Kevin Kateete, Manager of Licensing and Compliance at the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA), highlighted ongoing initiatives to streamline processes and support community-based health insurance schemes with lower setup costs, while maintaining professionalism and financial stability.

“The IRA is reviewing regulatory frameworks to encourage private sector participation and guarantee prompt payment of valid claims. Timely settlements are essential for maintaining trust in the system and ensuring that medical insurance fulfils its promise to protect citizens,” he said.

From the healthcare perspective, Dr Miriam Musinga Mutero, CEO of IHK C-Care, emphasised the importance of retaining skilled doctors and delivering patient-centred care.

“Open communication between insurers and hospitals is essential. Patients must receive high-quality treatment, and doctors need to feel supported rather than constrained by insurance limitations,” she said.

The dialogue stressed the urgent need for multi-stakeholder collaboration to expand insurance coverage, build trust, and improve healthcare outcomes in Uganda. Participants agreed that while progress has been made, sustained efforts are required to create inclusive, efficient, and patient-centred insurance solutions.