Background of the Study
Health insurance is a crucial mechanism for improving access to healthcare services, especially in developing countries where out-of-pocket payments are a significant barrier to health services (Akintoye & Salami, 2023). In Nigeria, health insurance schemes have been introduced at both the national and state levels to provide financial protection against high medical costs and to improve access to healthcare for vulnerable populations (Eze et al., 2023). Jigawa State, located in the northern region of Nigeria, has implemented health insurance programs aimed at enhancing access to healthcare services, particularly for low-income families and rural populations (Aliyu & Musa, 2024).
The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was launched by the federal government in 2005, but many states, including Jigawa, have introduced state-level health insurance schemes to complement this initiative (Bello & Tijani, 2023). However, the effectiveness of these health insurance schemes in improving healthcare access in Jigawa State remains a subject of debate. Despite the introduction of health insurance schemes, many residents, particularly those in rural areas, still face significant barriers to accessing healthcare, including financial constraints, lack of awareness, and insufficient healthcare infrastructure (Umar et al., 2024).
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of health insurance schemes in improving healthcare access in Jigawa State. By assessing the coverage, accessibility, and impact of these schemes on healthcare utilization, the study will provide evidence-based recommendations for enhancing health insurance programs in the state.
Statement of the Problem
In Jigawa State, despite the introduction of health insurance schemes, access to healthcare remains limited, particularly for rural and low-income populations. There is insufficient evidence on the impact of these schemes on improving healthcare access and utilization, particularly in underserved areas. This study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of health insurance schemes in enhancing healthcare access in Jigawa State.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the effectiveness of health insurance schemes in improving access to healthcare in Jigawa State.
2. To assess the coverage and utilization of health insurance schemes by residents of Jigawa State.
3. To identify the barriers to accessing healthcare through health insurance schemes in Jigawa State.
Research Questions
1. How effective are health insurance schemes in improving access to healthcare services in Jigawa State?
2. What is the level of coverage and utilization of health insurance schemes among residents of Jigawa State?
3. What are the barriers preventing residents of Jigawa State from accessing healthcare through health insurance schemes?
Research Hypotheses
1. Health insurance schemes are positively associated with increased healthcare utilization in Jigawa State.
2. Lack of awareness and inadequate coverage are significant barriers to accessing healthcare through health insurance schemes in Jigawa State.
3. The expansion of health insurance coverage is associated with improved healthcare access for low-income residents in Jigawa State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on evaluating the effectiveness of health insurance schemes in Jigawa State, using data from health insurance enrollees, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will assess the coverage, utilization, and barriers to accessing healthcare services through these schemes. Limitations include possible inaccuracies in self-reported data, challenges in reaching rural areas, and potential biases in the responses from health insurance providers.
Definition of Terms
• Health Insurance Schemes: Programs designed to provide financial protection for individuals against healthcare costs, either through government or private insurance plans.
• Healthcare Access: The ability of individuals to obtain timely and adequate healthcare services without financial or logistical barriers.
• Coverage: The extent to which health insurance schemes provide financial protection and access to a broad range of healthcare services for enrollees.
• Barriers to Access: Factors that limit the ability of individuals to use healthcare services, including financial constraints, lack of awareness, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
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