Cross-views of social protection stakeholders on mutual health insurance in Burkina Faso : Qualitative survey

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to provide an overview of the national legal framework forthe development of mutual health insurance and to assess the perceptions of stakeholders involved in social protection in Burkina Faso. We conducted a qualitative study from December 2024 to March 2025. The study had two components: a literature review to analyze the legal framework of social protection and a survey on national social protection stakeholders in 4 regions. A total of 210 participants were included in the study. We used individual interviews and focus groups (beneficiaries of mutual insurance companies). Our study included 210 people and was composed of decision-makers (n=16), planners (n=53), technical and financial partners (n=03), beneficiaries (n=58), civil society (n=80). At the legal and political level, several texts and laws govern mutuality in Burkina Faso. According to most participants, these documents have enabled the State to be involved in the organization of the mutual insurance sector. Mutuality is perceived by all participants as an alternative that improves access to healthcare for the population, cultivating humanism, as well as solidarity and social cohesion. These results should serve to boost the national and even regional dynamics underway on social health mutuals. They will enable the strengthening of the operation, efficiency, and sustainability of mutual insurance companies, benefiting populations that are currently not covered.