ASHIA Wins Most Innovative MDA in Anambra with its Digital Healthcare Transformation

By Ukpa Ewa

Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) has been named the Most Innovative Ministry, Department, and Agency (MDA) in Anambra State at the just-concluded Innovation Week 2024.

The agency clinched the top position securing a prize of ₦2 million, ahead of Anambra Road Maintenance Agency (ARMA) and Ministry of Youth Development, which took second and third places, respectively organized by Solution Innovation District (SID)

The Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr.
Simeon Onyemaechi expressed his delight during an interview in Awka, describing the award as a validation of years of hard work and innovation. “We are thrilled that our efforts to digitize healthcare delivery and expand access through technological advancements are being recognized,” he said.

Speaking on driving innovation in healthcare, Dr. Onyemaechi highlighted that ASHIA’s success stems from its commitment to leveraging modern technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), to enhance healthcare services. He emphasized that the agency’s digital transformation has simplified healthcare access for residents and Ndi Anambra in diaspora.

“Our digital footprint ensures that anyone, anywhere, can enroll in the Anambra Health Insurance Scheme, make payments, and access healthcare services seamlessly. We have partnered with global payment platforms like Remita, Interswitch and PayPal, enabling premium remittances in any currency,” he explained.

Also, he emphasized that ASHIA’s digital platform, www.ashiang.org allows users to onboard beneficiaries, while the USSD code *6700*005# provides a convenient payment method for those without internet-enabled devices. Additionally, a self-service portal lets users monitor their insurance status and renew policies from the comfort of their homes.

According to Dr. Onyemeachi, the agency’s innovative culture was rooted in a collaborative environment where every team member’s input is valued. “We have built an organization where even the opinions of the cleaner and gateman matter. This culture of inclusivity has allowed us to synthesize diverse ideas and refine them into groundbreaking solutions,” he noted.

Moreso, he said the team’s weekly review sessions have been instrumental in driving continuous improvement. “Every Thursday, we analyze our work from the previous week, identify areas for improvement and brainstorm innovative solutions”.

Notably, ASHIA prides itself on operating a fully digitalized, paperless system. From enrollment to hospital visits, every process is electronically managed. “Our claims payment system is among the fastest in the world, with no paper interface. Hospitals access patient records digitally, ensuring seamless service delivery,” Dr. Onyemaechi said.

On sustainability of the Innovation week, the Managing Director emphasized the need for sustainable innovation through partnerships with private organizations. He called on corporate entities to support subsequent editions of Innovation Week, urging them to invest in Anambra’s growing tech ecosystem.

“This event has showcased the immense talent and creativity of our young people. For us to grow our own Silicon Valley, corporate social responsibility must come into play. This is how we can channel youthful energy into creating solutions that will redefine our economy,” reaffirmed ASHIA’s dedication to exceeding expectations.

“This award is a testament to our team’s commitment and a reminder that people are watching. We have no reason to slack. The reward for hard work is more work, and we are ready to continue innovating to serve Ndi Anambra better.”

With its groundbreaking initiatives and commitment to excellence, ASHIA has set a benchmark for other MDAs, demonstrating how technology and innovation can transform public service delivery in Anambra State and beyond.