Demand For Nhif Cover Among Commercial Motorcylists In Kanduyi, Bungoma County

Abstract

Motorcycle transport has been increasing in popularity in Kenya because of its convenience and speed. However, the commercial motorcyclists face many health risks and this mode of transport records the highest accident fatalities annually. Therefore, commercial motorcyclists need health insurance to cover their health costs and safeguard their daily income. Consequently, this study focused on the factors that determine NHIF demand among commercial motorcyclists in Kanduyi, Bungoma County (a county that records the highest motorcyclist fatalities in Kenya). The study used cross-sectional data on various variables through a questionnaire. Subsequently, the study applied the binary probit model to quantify the effect and sign that study variables had on NHIF ownership. The results showed that age, household size, level of education, income, emergency care visits, and access to NHIF information had a negative relationship with NHIF cover ownership. Contrastingly, marital status, chronic illness, and SACCO membership positively influenced the probability of owning NHIF cover. The government should collaborate with SACCOs and microfinance institutions in promoting NHIF information and services because these organizations are significant variables in determining NHIF ownership.