The future of universal health insurance: An African perspective

Emmanuel Kumah, Richard Boateng

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

As many African countries emerge from extreme poverty and enter lower-and middle-income status, many aim to expand state-run social safety nets. An important part of this process is the introduction of universal health insurance programs, which aim to extend health insurance to groups that are usually excluded, namely informal workers and the indigent. In expanding health insurance, however, African countries face various forms of challenges because of the large informal sector operating outside the tax net; as well as financial, administrative, and systemic issues. This chapter delves into the multifaceted path to universal health insurance in Africa, exploring the hurdles that nations face in ensuring equitable healthcare for all, the innovative strategies that could be employed to navigate these challenges, and the potential transformative impact on the continent's health landscape. A non- systematic literature search for relevant published and unpublished records was conducted to obtain information for the chapter. The following electronic databases were searched: Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and African Index Medicus (AIM). In addition to the electronic search, the health ministry/department websites of various African countries were searched manually for further information on universal health insurance. Relevant data was extracted from the selected publications and summarized qualitatively based on three key themes: 1) the state of healthcare in Africa, 2) the concept of health insurance, and 3) the future of universal health insurance in Africa. Despite challenges, the future of universal health insurance in Africa holds a great promise in addressing healthcare disparities and improving overall health outcomes. With strategic planning, innovative financing mechanisms, and a focus on strengthening primary healthcare, African nations can pave the way towards achieving universal health coverage. Collaboration between governments, stakeholders, and international partners will be crucial in realizing the vision of accessible and affordable healthcare for all in Africa.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Future of Universal Health Insurance
PublisherNova Science Publishers, Inc.
Pages1-35
Number of pages35
ISBN (Electronic)9798895301920
ISBN (Print)9798895301074
Publication statusPublished - 8 Oct 2024
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Africa
  • Universal health insurance
  • Universal healthcare

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