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Войти в исследования Indian journal of community medicine : official publication of Indian Association of Preventive & Social Medicine · 2026
Financial Burden of Out-of-pocket Health Expenditure among Older Adults in Rural Kerala: A Mixed Methods Study.
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Babu Sruthy Kalathil, Thrivikraman Subhadra Kudukkasseri, Kutty V Raman, Shaji K S
Аннотация
BACKGROUND: The rising number of older adults in India has led to increased healthcare needs and financial challenges secondary to high out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE). Understanding the extent and impact of OOPE among community-resident older adults is crucial for developing equitable health policies.
METHODS: A mixed methods study was conducted among 364 older adults in Arimbur Gramapanchayath, Kerala. Quantitative data on healthcare expenses were collected using a pretested proforma, and qualitative interviews were conducted with participants reporting higher OOPE. Descriptive and thematic analyses were performed.
RESULTS: The mean monthly OOPE for outpatient care was INR 1,379, while the average annual OOPE for hospitalization was INR 26,094. Many participants (59.4%) lacked health insurance, and 76.8% of them preferred private healthcare. Qualitative findings indicated the presence of issues related to accessibility and availability of specialist care when needed. Financial insecurity adversely impacted the healthcare of older adults and at times led to the neglect of healthcare.
CONCLUSION: Older adults experience substantial financial strain due to healthcare costs, with inadequate insurance and reliance on private services. Strengthening of public healthcare services and efforts to reduce OOPE will help in scaling up senior care.
METHODS: A mixed methods study was conducted among 364 older adults in Arimbur Gramapanchayath, Kerala. Quantitative data on healthcare expenses were collected using a pretested proforma, and qualitative interviews were conducted with participants reporting higher OOPE. Descriptive and thematic analyses were performed.
RESULTS: The mean monthly OOPE for outpatient care was INR 1,379, while the average annual OOPE for hospitalization was INR 26,094. Many participants (59.4%) lacked health insurance, and 76.8% of them preferred private healthcare. Qualitative findings indicated the presence of issues related to accessibility and availability of specialist care when needed. Financial insecurity adversely impacted the healthcare of older adults and at times led to the neglect of healthcare.
CONCLUSION: Older adults experience substantial financial strain due to healthcare costs, with inadequate insurance and reliance on private services. Strengthening of public healthcare services and efforts to reduce OOPE will help in scaling up senior care.