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Healthcare Financing Vulnerability and Service Utilization in Kenya During the COVID-19 Pandemic, with a Focus on Policies to Protect Human Capital

Author

Listed:
  • Moses Muriithi

    (Department of Economics and Development Studies, University of Nairobi, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya)

  • Martine Oleche

    (Department of Economics and Development Studies, University of Nairobi, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya)

  • Francis Kiarie

    (Department of Management Science, Kenyatta University, Nairobi P.O. Box 43844-00100, Kenya)

  • Tabitha Mwangi

    (Macroeconomic Department, Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Nairobi P.O. Box 30266-00100, Kenya)

Abstract

The analysis of household health financing vulnerability and its impact on health service utilization during the COVID-19 pandemic remains inadequately explored in Kenya. This study was designed to examine the impact of health financing vulnerability on health services utilization during the COVID-19 period. A health financing vulnerability index (HFVI) was constructed to assess the financial risk that individuals faced in accessing essential health services. A pooled panel probit model was estimated to measure the effect of HFVI on service uptake. The study found a significant negative association between HFVI and health service utilization, indicating that a high level of health financing vulnerability is linked to poor health in periods of emergencies. To address this issue, the study recommends implementation of multiple policy measures during crisis periods, including enhancing social health insurance, providing financial support to vulnerable households, and increasing public expenditure on primary healthcare systems across counties, especially on drugs, referral logistics, personnel, medical equipment, and diagnostic technologies.

Suggested Citation

  • Moses Muriithi & Martine Oleche & Francis Kiarie & Tabitha Mwangi, 2025. "Healthcare Financing Vulnerability and Service Utilization in Kenya During the COVID-19 Pandemic, with a Focus on Policies to Protect Human Capital," Economies, MDPI, vol. 13(8), pages 1-18, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jecomi:v:13:y:2025:i:8:p:242-:d:1727545
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