Analytical Study of Participation Dynamics in Healthcare Insurance Plans for Treatment of Patients Diagnosed with Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Godson Chukwuemeka Ajuzie,
Osah Martins Onwuka,*
Adaobi Linda Okerulu

Abstract

Objective: To conduct an analytical investigation into the dynamics of participation in healthcare insurance plan among individuals diagnosed with Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), aiming to elucidate factors influencing enrollment and engagement. Methods: This clinical-based descriptive survey was conducted at a Federal Medical Center, Nigeria; gathering data from pregnant women, nursing mothers, adolescents, and sex workers diagnosed with STDs. Volunteered participants were selected through simple arbitrary sampling. Data were analyzed using a binary probit model, where Pi = 1 if p* > 0, indicates patient is a member of the insurance plan, and Pi = 0 otherwise; with the primary decision criterion based on the average score of insurance plan members. Results: Total of 114 participants responded positively, comprising various demographics; sex workers displayed the highest awareness and participation (90.3%) in the health insurance plan. Conversely, adolescents showed the lowest levels (37.4%), likely due to limited literacy and income. Pregnant and nursing mothers demonstrated relatively high rates (62.6% and 81.5%); possibly due to routine antenatal care. Factors influencing participation include income, religion, literacy, and organizational experience. Marginal coefficients suggest higher participation probabilities for women and older household members, indicating greater hospitalization needs. Membership correlates with more frequent hospitalization at lower costs, influenced by age, STD type, gender, income, and village factors. Conclusion: These findings highlight the intricate nature of participation dynamics in healthcare insurance among individuals diagnosed with STDs. They underscore the significance of mitigating mentioned socioeconomic disparities and demographic factors to promote greater enrollment and engagement in insurance plans.