Health care financing and achieving universal health care in Bayelsa: Changing the narrative through health insurance

Afakwu-Adimoha, Hilda Chinwe and Ogidi, Odangowei Inetiminebi (2025) Health care financing and achieving universal health care in Bayelsa: Changing the narrative through health insurance. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 21 (3). pp. 361-373. ISSN 2582-5542

Numerous nations struggle with limited and unequal access to high-quality healthcare, which hinders public health efforts. The achievement of universal health coverage is contingent upon the manner in which a nation allocates financial resources to support its healthcare system. This factor impacts the level of accessibility of healthcare services for individuals with the financial means to afford them. The Bayelsa State Health sector faces many challenges in establishing the most effective health service methods. The health performance of Bayelsa State is below average, although an official ranking of Nigeria is not available. Transportation and accessibility for health services and research are further challenged by the State's difficult geographic terrain. Thus, it is impossible to assess facility status and identify areas of need. Bayelsa health insurance policies are needed to improve health outcomes, especially for the poor and vulnerable. The initiatives cover outpatient care, pharmaceutical care (including essential drug lists), diagnostic tests, maternal care for up to four live births, preventive care (including immunisation, health education, antenatal and postnatal care), hospital care, eye care, and preventive dental care. Although a majority of the programme's services were linked to favourable self-reported health status and high participant satisfaction, there are still concerns about pharmaceuticals and healthcare facilities. In the BHIS framework, the government and stakeholders must emphasise medications, competent healthcare professionals, and well-equipped healthcare facilities. Effective referral systems can reduce the negative effects of health conditions on public and private sector personnel, improving the healthcare system.