Impact of national health insurance policy on access to basic health care in Kintampo Municipality

Abstract

The study assessed the impact of Kintampo Municipal Mutual Health Insurance Scheme on access to basic health care services in the Municipality since established in October, 2004 .Questionnaire, interview and focus group discussion were the data collection instruments employed to gather relevant information from Heads of Health Institutions, Health Insurance workers/agents, Caregivers and other opinion leaders. The data were analyzed using tables, graphs, charts, percentages and diagrams. The study revealed that a lot of people especially the poor, vulnerable and the marginalized were getting access to basic healthcare in the Municipality through the National Health Insurance policy. Factors such as untimely release of funds by NHIA, abuse of the system by clients, limited health facilities and inadequate qualified health personnel were hindering the smooth implementation of the policy. The study recommends that the Scheme should intensify education on the concept of NHIS policy. In addition, more health facilities should be established and existing ones up-graded to increase access to health care delivery. Finally, it is recommended that health personnel should be sponsored, bonded and motivated to service in rural communities in the Municipality.