Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was established by the Nigerian government to enhance access to healthcare services by ensuring that individuals, particularly those in the formal and informal sectors, benefit from affordable healthcare coverage (Oladipo et al., 2024). With a population of over 200 million, Nigeria faces significant challenges in providing accessible and quality healthcare services, especially in rural areas. The NHIS, therefore, was intended as a pivotal strategy to address these challenges, promoting health equity by reducing out-of-pocket expenses and improving the quality of care.
In Funtua Local Government, Katsina State, the NHIS has been implemented as part of broader efforts to increase healthcare access. However, there have been concerns regarding the scheme’s reach, affordability, and quality of service delivery (Abubakar et al., 2023). These concerns are compounded by logistical and infrastructural barriers such as inadequate healthcare facilities and insufficient enrolment rates. This study assesses the success of the NHIS in Funtua Local Government by evaluating its coverage, affordability, and overall impact on healthcare delivery.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the establishment of the NHIS, Funtua Local Government faces challenges related to the scheme's limited outreach, poor awareness, and high dropout rates among enrollees. Many individuals are either unaware of the program’s benefits or discouraged by the complex processes involved in registration (Bello et al., 2024). These barriers hinder the program's ability to significantly improve healthcare outcomes in the area. The study seeks to identify the reasons for these shortcomings and suggest solutions to improve NHIS effectiveness in rural settings.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of awareness and coverage of the NHIS in Funtua Local Government.
2. To evaluate the impact of the NHIS on healthcare delivery in the local government.
3. To identify challenges limiting the success of the NHIS in improving healthcare access in Funtua.
1.4 Research Questions
1. What is the level of awareness and enrolment in the NHIS in Funtua Local Government?
2. How does the NHIS affect healthcare delivery in Funtua?
3. What are the key challenges hindering the success of the NHIS in Funtua Local Government?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
1. NHIS enrollment has a positive impact on healthcare delivery in Funtua Local Government.
2. Limited awareness and high costs are significant barriers to NHIS enrollment.
3. NHIS success is impeded by inadequate healthcare infrastructure in rural areas.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is important as it highlights the successes and limitations of the NHIS in Funtua Local Government, contributing to the broader discourse on healthcare policy in Nigeria. The findings can guide policymakers, healthcare providers, and development agencies in improving the implementation and effectiveness of the NHIS, particularly in rural areas.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on Funtua Local Government, Katsina State, and specifically examines the implementation of the NHIS and its impact on healthcare delivery. Limitations include potential challenges in accessing up-to-date data due to infrastructural issues.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
• National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS): A government program designed to provide health insurance for citizens, particularly in the formal and informal sectors.
• Healthcare Delivery: The provision of medical services to the population, including prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
• Enrolment: The process by which individuals or families register to participate in the NHIS.
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