Eliminating disparities: effects of universal health-insurance on a minority population

Objectives : To examine the effects on disparity of universal health insurance for the Israeli Negev Bedouin Arab minority. Methods: Analysis of historical and health policy documents, field appraisals of health care services, interview survey of 515 Negev Bedouin households, and key informant interviews. Results: Since the initiation of universal coverage in 1996, health services, particularly primary care clinics and health manpower, have dramatically expanded, and real improvements have occurred. Disparities have decreased, but problems particular to this population remain. Conclusions: Universal health insurance encouraged proportional allocation of resources and open competition in the provision of quality health care, reducing disparities.