- Study shows 33% of families remain uninsured
Bhopal: A major research study conducted by Gandhi Medical College (GMC) and Hamidia Hospital has revealed a significant gap in the awareness and enrollment of health insurance schemes, with over a third of surveyed families lacking any coverage.
The study, led by Dr. Kuldeep Gupta under the guidance of Professor Dr. Jeevan Singh Meena, assessed the status of health insurance in 428 families across rural (Obedullahganj) and urban (Lady Bhore Centre, Fatehgarh) practice areas.
Key findings: Urban areas lagging in coverage
Uninsured Population: A total of 144 participants (33.6%) across both areas were not enrolled in any health insurance scheme.
Urban-Rural Disparity: Surprisingly, the ratio of uninsured individuals was found to be higher in urban areas compared to rural regions, suggesting an inequality in access to awareness.
Most Effective Scheme: Ayushman Bharat proved to be the most prevalent scheme, covering 240 participants, while only 33 participants held private health insurance.
Benefits are high, but awareness needs boost
The study found that over 93% of participants who were covered felt they received tangible benefits after enrollment, better than before. A large segment also believed that the schemes covered nearly all illnesses.
The researchers concluded that while the utility and benefits of existing schemes are clearly recognized by those enrolled, there is a substantial need to increase awareness and drive up enrollment among the remaining uninsured population.
