STUDY OF ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF HEALTHCARE DEMAND IN NIGERIA

ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF HEALTHCARE DEMAND IN NIGERIA

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ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF HEALTHCARE DEMAND IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The demand for healthcare services in Nigeria is significantly influenced by a range of economic factors that shape access, affordability, and utilization across different segments of the population. This study investigates the economic determinants of healthcare demand in Nigeria, focusing on variables such as income levels, cost of healthcare services, employment status, health insurance coverage, and government expenditure on health. Using both primary and secondary data sources, the study analyzes how these economic indicators impact individuals’ decisions to seek medical care, particularly in the context of a predominantly out-of-pocket payment system. The findings reveal that low income, high healthcare costs, and limited health insurance coverage serve as major barriers to healthcare access, especially for rural and informal sector populations. Additionally, disparities in government investment and the uneven distribution of health facilities further exacerbate access issues. The study concludes by recommending targeted policy interventions, including expanded health insurance schemes, increased public healthcare funding, and strategic subsidies to reduce financial barriers and promote equitable healthcare utilization across Nigeria.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Healthcare demand refers to the willingness and ability of individuals or households to seek medical services in response to perceived health needs. In developing countries like Nigeria, this demand is significantly shaped by various economic factors including income levels, healthcare costs, employment status, and health insurance coverage. These factors determine not only if individuals seek healthcare but also the type and quality of care they receive (World Bank, 2019).

Nigeria, with a population exceeding 200 million, faces multiple challenges in healthcare delivery, including underfunding, poor infrastructure, and inadequate health insurance penetration. The country operates a mixed healthcare system where public and private providers coexist, but out-of-pocket payments account for over 70% of total health expenditures (National Health Accounts, 2020). This high dependency on direct payment significantly influences the demand for health services, especially among low-income households.

Economic determinants are particularly crucial because they often serve as barriers or enablers to healthcare access. For instance, individuals with higher income levels are more likely to afford regular check-ups and quality treatment, while those in the informal sector or unemployed may delay care due to cost concerns (Aregbeshola & Khan, 2018). Inadequate financial protection mechanisms, such as the limited coverage of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), further exacerbate inequities in healthcare utilization.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite several healthcare reforms in Nigeria, access to affordable and quality healthcare remains a major concern. The persistent reliance on out-of-pocket payments, coupled with widespread poverty and unemployment, continues to hinder many Nigerians from seeking timely medical care (World Health Organization, 2021). The inability to pay for services often leads to delayed treatment, increased morbidity, and preventable deaths, especially in rural and underserved areas.

There is an urgent need to understand how economic factors drive or restrict healthcare demand in the country. While previous studies have examined healthcare access from various perspectives, a comprehensive analysis focusing on the economic determinants is lacking or limited in scope. Without addressing these root economic constraints, policy interventions may fail to achieve meaningful improvements in health outcomes.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to examine the economic determinants of healthcare demand in Nigeria. The specific objectives are to:

Assess the impact of income level on healthcare demand.

Examine the role of healthcare costs in influencing utilization.

Investigate the effect of employment status on healthcare-seeking behavior.

Evaluate the influence of health insurance coverage on access to healthcare services.

Analyze the role of government healthcare spending on demand patterns.

1.4 Research Questions

How does income level affect the demand for healthcare services in Nigeria?

What is the relationship between healthcare cost and utilization of medical services?

In what ways does employment status influence healthcare-seeking behavior?

What role does health insurance play in shaping healthcare demand?

How does government health expenditure impact healthcare utilization?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The following hypotheses will be tested in the study:

H₀₁: Income level has no significant effect on healthcare demand in Nigeria.

H₀₂: Healthcare cost does not significantly influence the utilization of healthcare services.

H₀₃: Employment status has no significant impact on healthcare-seeking behavior.

H₀₄: Health insurance coverage does not significantly affect healthcare access.

H₀₅: Government spending on healthcare does not significantly influence healthcare demand.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it offers a clear understanding of how economic variables shape healthcare demand in Nigeria. The findings will be relevant to policymakers, health economists, and development partners seeking to design effective healthcare financing and policy strategies. It will also contribute to academic literature on health economics in sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting areas where government interventions could improve access and equity.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on selected urban and rural populations across Nigeria to reflect the diversity in healthcare demand. The economic determinants examined include income, cost of healthcare, employment status, health insurance coverage, and government spending. The research will be based on data from national surveys, governmental health accounts, and household-level analyses from recent years (2015–2024).

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