Investigating the Willingness to Pay for a Contributory National Health Insurance Scheme in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Stated Preference Approach

摘要: The Saudi Healthcare System is universal, financed entirely from government revenue principally derived oil, and ‘free at the point of delivery’ (non-contributory). However, this system unlikely to be sustainable in medium long term. This study investigates feasibility acceptability healthcare financing reform by examining households’ willingness pay (WTP) for a contributory national health insurance scheme. Using contingent valuation method, pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used collect data 1187 heads household Jeddah province over 5-month period. Multi-stage sampling employed select sample. double-bounded dichotomous choice with follow-up elicitation respondents were asked state their WTP hypothetical Tobit regression analysis examine factors associated assess construct validity elicited WTP. Over two-thirds (69.6%) indicated that they willing participate mean 50 Riyal (US$13.33) per member month. showed size, satisfaction quality public services, perceptions about healthcare, education income main determinants demonstrates theoretically valid scheme people. research shows depends on participant characteristics. Identifying understanding influencing are important help facilitate establishing implementing results could assist policy-makers develop set premiums, thus providing an additional source financing.