Background of the Study
The rising costs of maternal and child healthcare in Nigeria have led to increased interest in private health insurance as a means of reducing financial hardship and improving healthcare access. While public health insurance programs exist, they often face challenges such as inefficiency, limited coverage, and bureaucratic delays (WHO, 2024). In response, private health insurance has been introduced as an alternative, offering more comprehensive services and better healthcare access for mothers and children.
In Katsina State, where maternal and infant mortality rates remain a concern, private health insurance could play a crucial role in improving healthcare outcomes. However, despite its potential benefits, the adoption of private health insurance remains low. Many women continue to pay for services out-of-pocket, risking financial strain and delayed healthcare access (UNICEF, 2024).
Understanding the factors influencing the adoption of private health insurance for maternal and child health in Katsina State is essential for developing policies that encourage participation. This study seeks to assess the level of private health insurance adoption, identify barriers, and propose strategies for increasing its uptake among mothers and children.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the availability of private health insurance in Nigeria, many pregnant women and mothers in Katsina State do not subscribe to it, relying instead on public healthcare services or paying directly for medical expenses. This reliance on out-of-pocket payments limits access to quality care and increases financial vulnerability (Gavi, 2024).
Several factors may contribute to the low adoption of private health insurance, including affordability concerns, lack of awareness, cultural beliefs, and distrust in insurance providers. Additionally, private insurance plans may not be designed to cater adequately to maternal and child healthcare needs, discouraging enrollment.
Given the potential benefits of private health insurance in ensuring financial protection and improved health outcomes, this study aims to evaluate its adoption in Katsina State and identify ways to enhance its accessibility.
Objectives of the Study
To determine the level of private health insurance adoption among mothers in Katsina State.
To identify barriers to the uptake of private health insurance for maternal and child health.
To propose strategies for increasing private health insurance enrollment among mothers and children.
Research Questions
What is the level of private health insurance adoption among mothers in Katsina State?
What are the main barriers preventing mothers from enrolling in private health insurance?
What strategies can improve private health insurance adoption for maternal and child healthcare?
Research Hypotheses
Private health insurance adoption is low among mothers in Katsina State.
Financial constraints and lack of awareness hinder the uptake of private health insurance for maternal and child health.
Increased awareness and subsidized insurance plans will improve private health insurance adoption.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on pregnant women and mothers with young children in Katsina State, evaluating their participation in private health insurance schemes. It will also explore the perspectives of private insurance providers and healthcare professionals. Limitations may include restricted access to private insurance data and variations in healthcare service costs.
Definitions of Terms
Private health insurance: A healthcare coverage plan provided by private organizations rather than the government.
Maternal and child health: Healthcare services aimed at ensuring the well-being of mothers and children.
Insurance adoption: The decision to enroll in and utilize health insurance services.
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