SUNU Health Nigeria Limited, a foremost Health Maintenance Organisation, has stressed the importance of deepening collaboration with its providers as a key step toward ensuring quality healthcare delivery to communities.

This was disclosed by the Managing Director of SUNU Health, Dr. Patrick Korie, during the 2025 edition of its National Providers Forum held in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.

The event themed “Bridging the Gap: Building a Stronger HMO-Provider Relationship,” brought together key stakeholders from across the healthcare ecosystem.

The forum, a key regulatory requirement of the National Health Insurance Authority for accredited HMOs, served as a vital platform for dialogue between SUNU Health and its network of healthcare providers.

It focused on strengthening partnerships and improving service delivery.

In a keynote address, Dr.Korie emphasised that the forum was aimed at thoroughly exploring the intricacies of the HMO-provider relationship, with a focus on strengthening collaboration and improving service outcomes.

He noted that the forum would provide an open platform to address common challenges affecting HMO-provider relationships.

These include payment delays, lack of transparency, and inadequate reimbursement rates, which often strain effective collaboration.

“Crucially, the discussions will highlight the significant advantages of a strong collaboration, emphasizing how a good HMO-Provider relationship directly leads to improved patient care, increased operational efficiency by streamlining processes, and ultimately enhanced credibility for the entire healthcare system,” he said.

Dr. Korie further noted that SUNU Health has adopted advanced technology to improve communication and streamline claims submission.

“At SUNU, which means ‘our own,’ humanity is at the centre of all our initiatives.

“Therefore, building a stronger relationship between us and our providers is not just an objective; it is essential for delivering the quality healthcare services our communities deserve,” he affirmed.

Dr. Korie revealed that SUNU Health conducted an extensive survey of providers and clients, using the findings to overhaul internal processes.

Key initiatives include a 30-day payment cycle for PHIS and NHIA claims, transparent communication channels, and advanced technology to streamline claims submissions.

He added that the company will continuously leverage data analytics to identify improvement areas and enhance service delivery.

The forum featured in-depth discussions on key operational issues, particularly the payment system, tariff structure, and response time efficiency.

Stakeholders critically assessed these areas to identify practical solutions for enhancing performance and strengthening collaboration.

Meanwhile, the Chief Operating Officer of SUNU Health, Dr. Faith Nwachi, highlighted the critical role of strong partnerships in achieving effective and sustainable healthcare outcomes.

“The National Providers Forum is more than just a gathering; it’s a testament to our belief in the power of partnership. We are committed to empowering our providers with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to deliver exceptional care.

” The insights gained today will undoubtedly fuel our collective efforts to elevate healthcare standards across Nigeria and drive sustainable industry growth,” Nwachi stated.

Participants praised the forum for its relevance, highlighting the valuable opportunity to network, exchange best practices, and collectively shape a stronger, more responsive healthcare system.

SUNU Health stated that it plans to build on the insights gained from the 2025 National Providers Forum to strengthen its strategies, launch targeted support programs for its provider network, and champion policies that advance healthcare quality.

The company remains firmly committed to driving positive change and improving the lives of Nigerians through innovative and effective healthcare management.