ROLE OF HEALTH INSURANCE IN IMPROVING PUBLIC HEALTH OUTCOMES IN KWARA STATE
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This paper examines how health insurance can enhance the health outcome of the population in Kwara State in Nigeria. It discusses the effects that enrolment in health insurance schemes have on morbidity and mortality rates, the use of preventive healthcare services, and the management of chronic and communicable diseases and determines obstacles that prevent their successful implementation. The mixed-methods research design was chosen, which combines quantitative information obtained through structured questionnaires distributed to 110 participants and qualitative information gained through interviews with the selected urban and rural communities. Results indicate that health insurance greatly decreases morbidity and mortality rates, increases preventive healthcare use, and the management of chronic illnesses by increasing treatment adherence and follow-up treatment. The efficiency of the available schemes is however hampered by inefficiencies in operations, slow claims processing, restricted provider networks, and poor public awareness. The research finds that health insurance is a critical tool in enhancing population health and facilitating a fair healthcare access in Kwara State. It suggests the enhancement of programme administration, provider coverage, population education and continuous monitoring and evaluation to maximize the effect of health insurance on the health outcomes of the people.
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