Investigation of National Health Insurance Scheme Clients’ Low Renewal Rates at the East Gonja District Mutual Health Insurance Scheme.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore sustainable approaches to increase renewal rates of members of the East Gonja District Mutual Health Insurance Scheme. The study was conducted in the six operational areas of the Scheme with a total sample of 386 persons studied across the zones. The sample units were purposively selected to meet established criteria. Three focused group discussions were held and a number of key informants were also interviewed in addition to administering 348 questionnaires. Subscription affordability was identified as the most important reason for low renewal of clients of the Scheme. Consequently, intensification of education in communities and reduction in subscription charges were identified as the most important ways to increase renewal rates. Major recommendations emanating from the study included the need to improve upon the productivity and incomes of the masses engaged in agriculture through the provision of enhanced farming systems and technologies; establish an FM/Radio station to assist the Scheme in its educational drive; enhance the performance of the Scheme and its Collection Agents through the provision of motorbikes and out-board motors to enable them reach out to the ‘overseas areas’ of the districts and finally government should expand the indigent bracket to include more poor persons in the exemption category to enable them enrol with the Scheme.