Assessment Of Public Policy Implementation In Gombe State: A Study Of The Gombe State Contributory Health Scheme (GOHEALTH)

Abstract

Public policy plays a vital role in addressing societal challenges and advancing development outcomes. In Nigeria, achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) remains a major policy priority, yet health insurance implementation continues to face operational and institutional challenges. This study assesses the implementation of the Gombe State Contributory Health Scheme (Go-Health), focusing on its effectiveness, challenges, and impact on healthcare access in Gombe State. The study adopted a descriptive survey design using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews involving Go-Health beneficiaries, healthcare providers, Go-Health officials, and nonenrolled residents. A sample of 100 respondents was selected through stratified random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings reveal that GoHealth has improved healthcare access, increased service utilization, and reduced out-of-pocket expenditure among beneficiaries. However, the scheme is constrained by low awareness, low enrollment, inadequate funding, shortage of medical personnel, and infrastructural deficits. The study concludes that while Go-Health has shown strong potential in improving healthcare financing in Gombe State, greater institutional strengthening and improved implementation mechanisms are required for sustainability and effectiveness.