In Lao PDR, travel and cost of care are the most significant barriers for the use of healthcare services. Although out-of- pocket spending on healthcare is low, it reflects a very low use of healthcare services.
Abstract
This policy brief presents findings from an analysis of the Lao Expenditure and Consumption Survey 2007–2008 (LECS4) (Lao Statistics Bureau 2008). It also reveals significant inequalities in the use of, and access to, basic healthcare services, with travel and cost being the most significant barriers. This national survey of 8,296 households (48,021 individuals) collects data on household consumption and living standards and includes a module on healthcare use and spending. Using the detailed household consumption section of the survey, this policy brief groups the population into equal quintiles of consumption per adult equivalent, as a measure of relative living standards and socioeconomic grouping.
Content
- Background
- Data Sources
- Perception of Illness and Treatment Seeking
- Use of Health Services
- Cost of Hospital Admission
- Out-of-Pocket Spending on Healthcare
- Financial Impact of Out-of-Pocket Spending on Healthcare
- Conclusions
- References
