Case Study: Securing Health Insurance Card for a Migrant - A Pathway to Healthcare Access
Introduction: This case study showcases the efforts of Caritas India and the Malankara Social Service Society (MSSS) in providing health insurance cards to interstate migrants in Trivandrum and Kollam. The project aimed to bridge the healthcare gap faced by migrant workers, including Mr. Manik Biswas, a Bengali migrant who had been working in Kerala for over a decade without any insurance coverage. By providing health insurance cards, the initiative sought to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare services for these vulnerable migrants.
The Rationale for the Activity: Interstate migrants often struggle to access healthcare due to their marginalized status, lack of awareness, and limited financial resources. Recognizing the importance of health insurance in securing healthcare access, Caritas India and MSSS collaborated to identify and assist 120 interstate migrants in obtaining health insurance cards. This initiative aimed to empower migrants like Mr. Manik Biswas with the means to access healthcare services without financial burdens.
Method and Process: MSSS conducted a comprehensive field study to identify 120 interstate migrants in Trivandrum and Kollam based on factors such as age, duration of work in the district, and vulnerability. Mr. Manik Biswas, a 42-year-old daily wage laborer from Chinnakkada in Kollam, was identified as one of the beneficiaries. Subsequently, awareness programs were organized to educate migrants about the benefits and coverage of the health insurance plan, raising awareness and consciousness among them.
Description of the Activity: Mr. Manik Biswas, having lived in Kollam for 10 years as a daily wage laborer, had never accessed formal healthcare services due to financial constraints. Through the efforts of Caritas India and MSSS, he was enrolled in the health insurance program and provided with a medical insurance card, opening up avenues for improved healthcare access.
Learnings and Results: The provision of health insurance cards had several positive outcomes:
Improved Healthcare Access: Migrants, including Mr. Manik Biswas, could seek medical assistance without worrying about financial burdens, significantly enhancing healthcare access.
Enhanced Well-being: Access to healthcare services improved the overall well-being of migrants. Timely medical interventions helped prevent minor illnesses from escalating into severe conditions.
Empowerment through Awareness: The awareness programs empowered migrants with knowledge about their rights and entitlements, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health.
Community Bonding: The project fostered a sense of community and belonging among migrants, positively impacting their mental health and well-being.
Scalability and Replicability: The success of the initiative demonstrated the potential to scale up the project and benefit more migrants in other regions, contributing to the welfare of a broader migrant population.
Follow Up: Regular follow-up sessions were organized to address any queries or concerns raised by Mr. Manik Biswas and other beneficiaries. Periodic check-ins ensured that migrants were effectively utilizing their health insurance benefits.
"I find this insurance card to be incredibly beneficial for me. Having worked in Kerala for the past 10 years without any entitlements, this card provides a much-needed sense of security. I am optimistic that it will bring significant advantages my way."
- Manik Biswas
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