Health Seeking Behavior and Out-of-Pocket Expenditure on Chronic Non-communicable Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Case of Rural Malawi

This book examines health-seeking behavior and out-of-pocket (OOP) spending on chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) in rural Malawi, using descriptive statistics and econometric models to analyze factors influencing these behaviors. It finds that despite free care in principle, low utilization rates and high OOP payments burden rural households, particularly the poor.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2018
Publisher: Peter Lang AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate patterns and factors associated with health-seeking behavior and out-of-pocket (OOP) spending on chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) in rural Malawi. The author employs a multi-faceted approach, utilizing descriptive statistics to provide a detailed account of treatment options and related household out-of-pocket expenditure on CNCDs. Additionally, econometric models are employed to analyze the various factors that influence health-seeking behavior and OOP expenditure on CNCDs.

The findings of this study are both enlightening and concerning. Despite the fundamental principle that care for CNCDs should ideally be free of charge at the point of use, the utilization rates of such care remain low, resulting in a significant financial burden being imposed on rural households, particularly among the most vulnerable segments of society.

One of the key findings is the significant role that socioeconomic factors play in shaping health-seeking behavior and OOP expenditure on CNCDs. The study reveals that households with lower incomes, limited education, and restricted access to healthcare resources are more likely to resort to self-medication, seek care from informal providers, and incur substantial OOP payments. This not only exacerbates their health conditions but also places an unbearable strain on their financial resources, leading to poverty and destitution.

Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of healthcare infrastructure and access to quality healthcare services in influencing health-seeking behavior and OOP expenditure on CNCDs. The lack of adequate healthcare facilities, skilled healthcare professionals, and essential medicines in rural areas contributes to delayed diagnosis, inappropriate treatment, and increased OOP spending. This not only compromises the health outcomes of individuals but also undermines the overall healthcare system's capacity to address the growing burden of CNCDs.

To address these challenges, the book proposes a range of policy interventions and strategies. These include improving healthcare infrastructure and access, enhancing the availability and quality of healthcare services, implementing targeted poverty alleviation programs, and promoting health education and awareness. By implementing these measures, it is hoped that rural households will have better access to quality healthcare, reducing the burden of CNCDs on their health and financial well-being.

In conclusion, this book provides valuable insights into the patterns of health-seeking behavior and out-of-pocket spending on chronic non-communicable diseases in rural Malawi. It highlights the need for concerted efforts to address the socioeconomic factors that contribute to poor health outcomes and promote access to quality healthcare services. By implementing these interventions, it is possible to improve the health and well-being of rural communities, ultimately contributing to the overall development of the country.
This comprehensive book delves into the intricate patterns and factors associated with health-seeking behavior and out-of-pocket (OOP) spending on chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) in rural Malawi. The author employs a multi-faceted approach, utilizing descriptive statistics to provide a detailed account of treatment options and related household out-of-pocket expenditure on CNCDs. Additionally, econometric models are employed to analyze the various factors that influence health-seeking behavior and OOP expenditure on CNCDs.

The findings of this study are both enlightening and concerning. Despite the fundamental principle. principle that care for CNCDs should ideally be free of charge at the point of use, the utilization rates of such care remain low, resulting in a significant financial burden being imposed on rural households, particularly among the most vulnerable segments of society.

One of the key findings is the significant role that socioeconomic factors. factors play in shaping health-seeking behavior and OOP expenditure on CNCDs. The study reveals that households with lower incomes, limited education, and restricted access to healthcare resources are more likely to resort to self-medication, seek care from informal providers, and incur substantial OOP payments. This not only exacerbates their health conditions but also places an unbearable strain on their financial resources, leading to poverty and destitution.

Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of healthcare infrastructure and access to quality healthcare services in influencing health-seeking behavior and OOP expenditure on CNCDs. The lack of adequate healthcare facilities, skilled healthcare professionals, and essential medicines in rural areas contributes to delayed diagnosis, inappropriate treatment, and increased OOP spending. This not only compromises the health outcomes of individuals but also undermines the overall healthcare system's capacity to address the growing burden of CNCDs.

To address these challenges, the book proposes a range of policy interventions and strategies. These include improving healthcare infrastructure and access, enhancing the availability and quality of healthcare services, implementing targeted poverty alleviation programs, and promoting health education and awareness. By implementing these measures, it is hoped that rural households will have better access to quality healthcare, reducing the burden of CNCDs on their health and financial well-being.

In conclusion, this book provides valuable insights into the patterns of health-seeking behavior and out-of-pocket spending on chronic non-communicable diseases in rural Malawi. It highlights the need for concerted. concerted health outcomes and promote access to quality healthcare services. By implementing these interventions, it is possible to improve the health and well-being of rural communities, ultimately contributing to the overall development of the country.

Weight: 230g
Dimension: 149 x 210 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783631717394
Edition number: New ed