Effectiveness of the Free Health Care Policy for Diabetic Patients in Kabezi District, Burundi

Abstract

Burundi is one of the countries that have already started incorporating mechanisms of fighting the prevalence of diabetes. The health situation in Burundi was very shocking with the combined mortality rate being 15 per 1000 (2008 Population Census of Burundi). The Diabetes prevalence in Burundi stands at 2.6% and the government of Burundi has tried to curb diabetic related death through the provision of Free Health care services for diabetes patients under the age of 25. The study used a mixed research methodology. In order to mitigate the limitations of each approach, the qualitative or quantitative approaches created an opportunity for triangulation so as to augment each other in an integrated framework. There are challenges hindering the effectiveness of the free health care policy in the district. Some of these challenges are, transport unavailability, corruption in the public sector, religious beliefs and resistance from the target group. The research shows that the policy of free healthcare is effective, however the government is not capable to offer free healthcare due to resource limitation. From the 86 respondents, 21 people were not pleased with how the health care services are being offered at the health centers. Some indicated that the centers are too small to accommodate many people whilst some indicated that there is not enough medication to support the ever-growing number of diabetic people. The research shows that 17 people have been living with diabetes for a period of 6 to 8 years, 14 people between 4 to 6 years while only 8 people have just been living with it for less than 4 years. There is need to provide strong health system first which the country is yet to do and to decentralize healthcare services. Achieving universal health coverage (UHC) for both individuals and the public at large is necessary. Concentration on development of formulae for determining the necessities for medicines, commodities, essential technologies, and conception of an apparent and accountable procurement system. Fostering on development of an inclusive health financing policy and a strategic plan is also necessary.