Utilization of Tertiary Institutions Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP) among undergraduate students in Enugu State

Abstract

Introduction: Utilization of Health Insurance Scheme services varies for a variety of reasons but it appears that the determining factors are universal.TISHIP was developed to counteract the detrimental effects of user fees which sometimes lead to catastrophic health expenditures. This study aimed to ascertain level of awareness and utilization of TISHIP in tertiary institution in Nigeria

Methods: The study was carried out among full time undergraduate studentsEnugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu state. Nigeria. Analytical cross sectional study design involving use of questionnaire was done. Chi Square test and Binary logistic regression were used to ascertain socio-demographic factors influencing utilization of TISHIP.

Results: Majority of respondents were aged 21-25 years 149(48.7%) and lived off-campus 267(87.3%). About 137(44.8%) were aware of TISHIP with major source of awareness from friends/relatives 82(59.8%). Also 60% had positive attitude, 88(28.8%) has registered for the programme and 46(52.3%0 registered >1 year ago.Major factors influencing TISHIP includes; long waiting time 195(63.7%) and poor attitude of the medical staff 186(60.8%). There were statistical significant associations between use of TISHIP with address, education and occupation of both parents. (p< 0.05). Identified predictors were being females (AOR 0.74; 95% CI 0.35-0.96), living in hostel (AOR 3.24; 95% CI 1.52-6.77), father being civil/public servant (AOR 2.34; 95% CI 1.66-5.61) and mother being civil/public servant (AOR 3.13; 95% CI 1.02-7.54).

Conclusion: The study showed that knowledge on TISHIP was poor, Also utilization of TISHIP was poor However, majority had positive attitude on TISHIP. There is need for improvement especially as regards sensitization and dissemination on availability of TISHIP to achieve the set objective of the programme.

Key words: Tertiary, Health, Insurance, Students