Enhancing Health Insurance Coverage Through Digital Innovation: Lessons From the Bayelsa Health Insurance Management Information System

Abstract Background: Access to quality healthcare remains a major challenge in Nigeria, where weak infrastructure, limited financing, and low health insurance coverage continue to impede progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Despite health insurance reforms in the National Health Act and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, implementation challenges persist, particularly at the state level. In Bayelsa State, the Bayelsa Health Insurance Scheme (BHIS) was established to improve access; however, inefficiencies in claims processing, data management, and administrative workflows limited its effectiveness. Description: To strengthen system efficiency and expand coverage, the Corona Management Systems Health Insurance Management Information System (CHIMIS) was developed and deployed for BHIS. Designed through an agile, co-creation process involving BHIS leadership, the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) teams of BHIS, healthcare providers, and the Corona Management Systems team, CHIMIS integrates enrolment, claims management, provider payment, and real-time analytics within a secure digital platform. Training, pilot testing, and phased scale-up enabled smooth adoption, while offline functionality ensured service continuity in low-connectivity areas. Interactive dashboards support evidence-based decision-making and programme monitoring. Lessons Learned: Key lessons from implementation include the importance of early stakeholder engagement, continuous capacity building, and iterative system adaptation to local realities. Sustainable financing through government and donor contributions strengthened coverage for vulnerable groups, while structured employer-based mechanisms boosted enrolment in the Formal Sector. Data quality assurance, dedicated IT support, and offline capability were critical for maintaining operational resilience and user trust. Conclusion: The CHIMIS design and deployment demonstrate the transformative potential of digital innovations in improving enrolment management, accountability, and health system performance. High enrolment in the Formal Sector (51.2%) and Vulnerable Population Programme (41.3%) reflects the impact of policy-aligned, equity-driven digital health interventions. Context-specific design, policy alignment, and participatory implementation remain essential for scaling similar innovations across Nigeria and other low- and middle-income countries striving for UHC.