Background of the Study
Immunization is one of the most effective public health interventions for preventing childhood diseases and reducing infant mortality rates. However, in Nigeria, immunization coverage remains inconsistent due to financial constraints, lack of awareness, and inadequate healthcare access (WHO, 2024). Child health insurance schemes, designed to provide financial support for pediatric healthcare, have been introduced to improve immunization uptake and overall child well-being.
Plateau State has recorded gaps in immunization coverage, with many children missing routine vaccines due to cost barriers and limited access to healthcare facilities (UNICEF, 2024). Child health insurance schemes, such as the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), aim to bridge these gaps by offering subsidized or free immunization services. However, there is limited data on the effectiveness of these programs in increasing immunization rates.
This study seeks to evaluate the impact of child health insurance schemes on immunization uptake in Plateau State, analyzing whether such schemes have improved vaccination coverage among children.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the availability of free immunization programs, vaccine uptake remains suboptimal in Plateau State. Many caregivers cite financial constraints, inadequate health insurance coverage, and logistical challenges as reasons for incomplete vaccination schedules (Gavi, 2024). Child health insurance schemes have been introduced to eliminate financial barriers, but their effectiveness in improving immunization rates has not been fully assessed.
Several challenges hinder the success of these schemes, including low enrollment, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and poor awareness among parents. Additionally, some healthcare facilities still charge unofficial fees for services that should be covered under health insurance schemes, discouraging participation. This study aims to assess the role of child health insurance schemes in improving immunization uptake and identify factors that may limit their effectiveness.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the level of immunization coverage among children enrolled in health insurance schemes in Plateau State.
To determine whether child health insurance schemes have significantly improved immunization uptake.
To identify barriers to effective implementation of child health insurance programs for immunization services.
Research Questions
What is the immunization coverage rate among children benefiting from health insurance schemes in Plateau State?
How has the introduction of child health insurance schemes influenced immunization uptake?
What challenges affect the successful implementation of child health insurance programs for immunization services?
Research Hypotheses
Children enrolled in health insurance schemes have higher immunization rates than those without coverage.
Financial assistance through child health insurance schemes significantly improves vaccine uptake.
Administrative inefficiencies and lack of awareness limit the effectiveness of child health insurance schemes in promoting immunization.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on parents and caregivers of children under five years old in Plateau State, examining their experiences with child health insurance and immunization services. It will also assess the perspectives of healthcare providers and insurance administrators. Limitations may include variations in immunization records and challenges in accessing comprehensive insurance data.
Definitions of Terms
Child health insurance schemes: Financial programs designed to provide healthcare coverage for children, including immunization services.
Immunization uptake: The percentage of children receiving recommended vaccines at the appropriate ages.
Health insurance coverage: The extent to which an individual or group is protected financially against medical costs.
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