Background of the Study
Access to quality healthcare is essential for reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. In Nigeria, maternal health remains a major concern, with high rates of pregnancy-related complications due to financial barriers, limited healthcare access, and poor service delivery (WHO, 2024). The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was introduced to improve healthcare accessibility, including for pregnant women, by reducing out-of-pocket costs. However, despite these efforts, many pregnant women in states like Kaduna still face challenges in accessing healthcare under the NHIS.
Kaduna State has a mix of urban and rural populations, and disparities exist in healthcare access due to socioeconomic and infrastructural factors. Studies suggest that while NHIS coverage has improved in some areas, rural and low-income pregnant women often lack awareness or face bureaucratic hurdles in enrolling (UNICEF, 2024). Additionally, the adequacy of services covered under NHIS remains a concern, with many enrollees experiencing limited benefits or challenges in accessing specialized maternal care.
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of NHIS in ensuring adequate healthcare access for pregnant women in Kaduna State. By assessing enrollment rates, service availability, and challenges, the research will provide insights into improving health insurance coverage for maternal care.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the existence of NHIS, many pregnant women in Kaduna State still experience financial barriers to maternal healthcare. The scheme was designed to improve affordability and access, yet disparities persist due to low awareness, enrollment difficulties, and limited service availability in rural areas (UNFPA, 2024).
A significant number of pregnant women either do not know about NHIS or find the registration process cumbersome. Additionally, healthcare facilities offering NHIS services may be insufficient, leading to overcrowding and inadequate care. These gaps undermine the effectiveness of NHIS in reducing maternal mortality and morbidity rates in Kaduna State. Therefore, this study seeks to assess the extent of NHIS coverage, identify barriers to enrollment and service utilization, and recommend strategies for improving maternal health insurance access.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the level of NHIS coverage among pregnant women in Kaduna State.
To identify barriers to enrollment and utilization of NHIS maternal healthcare services.
To recommend strategies for improving NHIS accessibility and effectiveness for pregnant women.
Research Questions
What is the extent of NHIS coverage for pregnant women in Kaduna State?
What are the main barriers preventing pregnant women from enrolling in and utilizing NHIS services?
How can NHIS be improved to enhance maternal healthcare accessibility?
Research Hypotheses
NHIS coverage among pregnant women in Kaduna State is significantly low.
Lack of awareness and bureaucratic challenges hinder NHIS enrollment among pregnant women.
Improved NHIS service delivery will enhance maternal healthcare access and outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on pregnant women in Kaduna State, assessing NHIS enrollment rates, challenges, and service adequacy. Limitations may include difficulty obtaining accurate enrollment data and variations in NHIS implementation across different healthcare facilities.
Definitions of Terms
National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS): A government program aimed at providing affordable healthcare coverage to Nigerians.
Maternal healthcare: Medical services provided to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.
Healthcare access: The ability of individuals to obtain necessary medical services without financial or logistical barriers.
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