Impact of Free Health Care on Ghanaian Children
Author Information
Author(s): Evelyn Korkor Ansah, Narh-Bana Solomon, Asiamah Sabina, Dzordzordzi Vivian, Biantey Kingsley, Dickson Kakra, Gyapong John Owusu, Koram Kwadwo Ansah, Greenwood Brian M, Mills Anne, Whitty Christopher J. M
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
Does removing direct payment for health care improve health outcomes in Ghanaian children?
Conclusion
Removing out-of-pocket payments for health care changed health care-seeking behavior but did not improve health outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- Children in the intervention group used formal health care more frequently than those in the control group.
- There was no significant difference in the prevalence of moderate anaemia between the two groups.
- Families who previously self-enrolled in the prepayment scheme were healthier and used services more frequently.
Takeaway
When families in Ghana didn't have to pay for health care, they went to clinics more often, but it didn't make the kids healthier.
Methodology
A randomized controlled trial comparing health outcomes and care utilization between children receiving free health care and those paying user fees.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias as self-enrolled participants were healthier and wealthier than randomized participants.
Limitations
The study may not be generalizable to other settings, and indirect costs of care were not addressed.
Participant Demographics
Ghanaian children under 5 years old from low-income households.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.86
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.66–1.67
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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