Analysis of social-economic factors that limit health insurance coverage in Uganda

Abstract

Health insurance is crucial for households to avoid financial hardships, improve health care quality and engage in health insurance policies, community-based health insurance schemes have been established however most of the individuals fail to comply to these services of health insurance. It is based on this that a comprehensive study was based on to analyze the socioeconomic factors that limit individuals on health insurance coverage in Uganda as its general objective. The study was also guided by the specific objectives which included; to assess the effect of demographic factors on influencing an individual to be covered by health insurance, to analyze the effect of socio-factors on influencing an individual to be covered up by health insurance. The study used data obtained from Uganda National Household Survey (UNHS) conducted in 2019 and 2020 by Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS). This data was analyzed at univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis using Stata. The study showed income status was significantly associated with health insurance coverage in Uganda. Majority of the individuals with a stable income were covered by health insurance. The study also showed household size was significantly associated with health insurance coverage in Uganda. The findings of this study shed light on the pressing issue of limited health insurance coverage in Uganda and offer valuable insights for policy makers, health care providers and other stakeholders seeking to enhance the accessibility and equity of health care services in Uganda. For instance; the government of Uganda should consider subsidizing health Insurance premiums to the disadvantaged groups such as low-income families to ensure these groups can afford health insurance coverage. Quality improvement of Health care services available under insurance plans. This is to ensure people receive value for their premiums.