Microfinance and Quality of Care in Ugandan Clinics
Author Information
Author(s): Eric E. Seiber, Amara L. Robinson
Primary Institution: Ohio State University
Hypothesis
Can microfinance loans improve the perceived quality of care in private clinics in Uganda?
Conclusion
The microfinance program improved perceived quality at loan recipient clinics, especially as reliable drug outlets.
Supporting Evidence
- Clients at intervention clinics were more likely to cite drug availability as a reason for their visit.
- Perceived quality significantly increased for six indicators at intervention clinics.
- Loan clinics saw an average increase of five clients per week over comparison clinics.
Takeaway
This study shows that giving small loans to clinics in Uganda helped them provide better care, especially by having more medicines available.
Methodology
The study used logistic regressions based on client exit interviews to assess the impact of microfinance loans.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to differences in client demographics between intervention and comparison groups.
Limitations
The evaluation design limits generalizability to other private Ugandan clinics and relies on client perceptions rather than direct performance measures.
Participant Demographics
Clients included a mix of genders, with a mean age of 28 years, and varied educational backgrounds.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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