Assessing the effect of digital and flexible payment options on the uptake of health insurance by the Nigerian informal sector

Despite the implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in 2005, coverage remains low, particularly within the informal sector, which represents 93% of Nigeria’s workforce.  This project seeks to evaluate the effect of digital and flexible payment options on the uptake of health insurance among informal sector workers in Edo State, Nigeria. This study is motivated by the need to improve health insurance uptake in the non-poor informal sector, a group not fully covered by the NHIS. The project will utilize digital payment platforms and flexible payment schemes to address these challenges. Key activities include the enrollment of informal workers, training on digital platforms, and premium collection, with expected outcomes such as increased enrollment, improved access to healthcare, and reduced out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Ultimately, the project aims to contribute to better health outcomes, enhanced productivity, and improved welfare for informal sector workers in Nigeria.