An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Retirement Health Policy in Soroti Diocese in the Province of the Church of Uganda

Abstract

This study aimed at comprehensively evaluating the effectiveness and ineffectiveness of the Retirement Health Policy in the Province of Church of Uganda, Soroti Diocese. The study was guided by the following objectives: analyzing the existing retirement health policies and benefits offered within Soroti Diocese, examining the effectiveness of the existing retirement health policies in meeting the healthcare needs of the retired clergy and lay personnel, identifying the specific barriers hindering the effectiveness of the retirement health policies and recommending evidence-based improvements for enhancing the effectiveness of the retirement health policy in Soroti Diocese. The study was conducted using a case study research design where qualitative research approach was used. Data was collected using documentary review checklists and interviews with the Retired Clergy in Soroti Diocese and the top management of Soroti Diocese totaling to 25 who were selected using purposive sampling method. Furthermore, data was analyzed qualitatively using thematic review. The study findings revealed significant gaps in the retirement health policy in Soroti Diocese, particularly in specialized and comprehensive care. Both retirees and top management highlighted the need for expanded benefits, clearer communication, and a more frequent and structured review process. Key challenges include inadequate coverage, bureaucratic delays, geographic limitations, policy complexity, and affordability issues. To address these, recommendations include broadening the policy, simplifying administrative processes, increasing financial support, and exploring partnerships with external healthcare providers to improve service quality and accessibility. In conclusion, the analysis of the retirement health policy in Soroti Diocese reveals critical gaps in coverage, particularly for specialized care and preventive services, and highlights the need for increased financial support, streamlined administrative processes, and better communication. Both retirees and management recognize these shortcomings and stress the importance of adopting best practices, including comprehensive insurance plans and partnerships with healthcare providers, to enhance the policy’s effectiveness and better meet retirees' diverse healthcare needs. Lastly, the study recommended the need for a comprehensive review and expansion of the retirement health policy to cover specialized treatments, streamline administrative processes, increase financial support and coverage limits, improve communication and support mechanisms, and explore partnerships with external healthcare providers to enhance service quality and accessibility for retirees.