Structural violence and policy outcomes of Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme in selected ministries, Lagos State

Abstract

The decentralization of the NHIS’s implementation to states intended to hasten progress towards universal health coverage, has not effectively addressed healthcare disparities, particularly in Lagos State. The implementation of the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme appears to perpetuate structural violence, evident in increased out-of-pocket expenses, discrimination based on insurance type, and substandard healthcare delivery. The study therefore examined how structural violence has affected the policy outcomes of the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme, with a specific emphasis on junior officers in grade level 01–07 in five selected ministries situated within Lagos State. Both primary and secondary data were collected using questionnaire, interview and literature search. Data gathered were analysed statistically and thematically. The findings of the study indicate that the policy outcome of the scheme has been adversely affected by structural violence, resulting in dissatisfaction, compensation claims for unresolved health issues and a shift in health insurance providers among enrolled junior officers.