IMPACT OF TRADE IN HEALTH SERVICES ON HEALTHCARE OUTCOMES IN NIGERIA: A TIME SERIES ANALYSIS

Abstract This study investigates the impact of trade in health services on healthcare outcomes in Nigeria, focusing on life expectancy and other key indicators. The research explores how increased global trade in health services, driven by liberalization policies and technological advancements, affects healthcare delivery and outcomes in developing countries, specifically Nigeria. The study employs time series data from 2000 to 2023 and utilizes an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to analyze the long-run and short-run relationships between variables such as life expectancy, trade in services, GDP per capita growth, and healthcare expenditure. The key findings indicate that increased trade openness positively influences healthcare outcomes, with trade in services significantly impacting life expectancy. However, the relationship between GDP per capita growth and life expectancy shows mixed results, requiring further investigation. The research highlights the need for supportive policies, including investments in healthcare infrastructure and human capital, to maximize the benefits of global trade in health services. The study concludes that while trade in health services can improve healthcare outcomes, equitable access and regulatory frameworks are essential to ensure that the benefits reach all population segments, particularly the most vulnerable. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers aiming to improve Nigeria's healthcare system in the context of increasing global trade.