The success of health microinsurance (HMI) schemes is limited because a key question regarding sustainability remains unanswered. HMI schemes are run by a range of types of organization: for-profit insurance companies, not-for-profit organizations, and intermediaries. These schemes use subsidies, include both mandatory and voluntary enrollment, and provide comprehensive as well as limited health benefits. HMI sustainability is based on four drivers: achieve scale, control claim costs, manage expenses, and use subsidies.
This paper was published by the International Labour Organization.