The Effectiveness of Health Delivery Services Under the Nigerian Health Insurance Scheme (nhis)

ABSTRACTThis study examines the effectiveness of health delivery services under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) using University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) as a case study. The primary objectives of the research include evaluating the level of accessibility, affordability, and quality of healthcare services provided to NHIS enrollees. Additionally, the study aims to identify the challenges faced in the implementation of NHIS at UATH. Employing a quantitative and descriptive research design, data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed to a sample of 120 respondents, which included both patients enrolled in NHIS and healthcare providers at UATH. Out of the distributed questionnaires, 108 were completed and returned, providing a robust basis for analysis. The data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods to assess the perceptions of respondents regarding service accessibility, quality, and patient satisfaction. The findings indicate that a significant majority of respondents (83.3%) agree that NHIS has improved access to healthcare services, with 86.1% noting a reduction in financial barriers. Affordability was also positively assessed, with 74% of respondents perceiving NHIS services as financially manageable. Satisfaction with service quality was high, with 83.3% affirming that healthcare services meet established quality standards. However, challenges such as long wait times (22.22%), funding shortages (21.29%), and inadequate infrastructure (18.5%) were highlighted as barriers to optimal service delivery. In conclusion, while the NHIS has made substantial progress in enhancing healthcare access, affordability, and quality at UATH, significant operational challenges remain that require attention. Recommendations include increasing funding and resource allocation to NHIS, enhancing continuous staff training, streamlining administrative processes, and expanding healthcare infrastructure. By addressing these challenges, NHIS can further improve service delivery, ultimately benefiting the health outcomes of the patient population at UATH. This study underscores the need for ongoing evaluation and adaptation of NHIS policies to ensure that they effectively meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community.