Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Health insurance schemes have become an essential component of health systems in many countries, offering protection against high medical costs and improving access to healthcare services. In Nigeria, local governments have increasingly taken on the responsibility of providing health insurance schemes to promote affordable healthcare for their citizens, especially in rural and underserved areas. Yola North Local Government Area (LGA) in Adamawa State has implemented a local health insurance scheme aimed at reducing the financial burden on families and increasing access to essential healthcare services (Fatai & Yusuf, 2024). The scheme is designed to cover basic health services, including maternal care, immunizations, and treatment for common illnesses, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Despite its potential benefits, the effectiveness of the scheme in achieving these goals remains uncertain, as many residents report difficulties in accessing services and understanding the benefits of enrollment (Abubakar & Hadi, 2023). This study evaluates the effectiveness of the local health insurance scheme in Yola North LGA, focusing on its impact on healthcare access, cost reduction, and the overall health outcomes of enrolled individuals (Salihu & Sulaiman, 2025).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the implementation of local government health insurance schemes in Yola North LGA, many citizens continue to face challenges in accessing affordable and quality healthcare services. There are reports of poor enrollment rates, lack of awareness about the scheme’s benefits, and administrative inefficiencies in delivering services under the scheme. Additionally, some healthcare providers have expressed concerns about the delayed payments and the adequacy of coverage under the scheme. These issues raise questions about the overall effectiveness of the health insurance scheme in achieving its intended objectives. This study seeks to assess the effectiveness of the local government health insurance scheme in Yola North LGA and identify the factors contributing to its success or failure.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the effectiveness of the local government health insurance scheme in improving healthcare access in Yola North LGA.
To assess the impact of the health insurance scheme on reducing healthcare costs for residents in Yola North LGA.
To identify the challenges faced by residents and healthcare providers in utilizing the local health insurance scheme in Yola North LGA.
1.4 Research Questions
How effective is the local government health insurance scheme in improving access to healthcare services in Yola North LGA?
What impact does the health insurance scheme have on reducing healthcare costs for residents of Yola North LGA?
What challenges do residents and healthcare providers face in utilizing the health insurance scheme in Yola North LGA?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The local government health insurance scheme has significantly improved access to healthcare services in Yola North LGA.
The health insurance scheme has led to a reduction in healthcare costs for residents of Yola North LGA.
Administrative inefficiencies and lack of awareness are significant challenges to the effectiveness of the health insurance scheme in Yola North LGA.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it will provide insights into the effectiveness of local government health insurance schemes in promoting access to affordable healthcare services, which is a critical issue in many rural areas. The findings will help policymakers in Yola North LGA and other regions to improve the design and implementation of health insurance programs, thereby increasing healthcare access and improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on the local government health insurance scheme in Yola North LGA, Adamawa State. It will assess its effectiveness in improving healthcare access, reducing costs, and identifying challenges in scheme implementation. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data from residents and healthcare providers, as well as difficulties in obtaining comprehensive data from local government authorities.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Health Insurance Scheme: A system of health coverage where individuals or families pay premiums in exchange for coverage of medical services, aiming to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare.
Healthcare Access: The ability of individuals to obtain necessary medical care in a timely and affordable manner.
Administrative Inefficiencies: Delays or failures in the management, coordination, or delivery of services under the health insurance scheme.
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