Impact of out-of-pocket expenditure in healthcare seeking behaviour of geriatric population in rural Kerala

The study aimed to investigate the impact of healthcare expenditure of 405 rural elderly (Female=181 and Male=224), age varying from 60 years and above, on their healthcare-seeking behaviour. A structured questionnaire was used in the data collection. The findings of the study revealed that financial matters influence the healthcare-seeking behaviour of the rural elderly in Kerala and the huge Out-of-Pocket payments (OOP) force them to delay or deny healthcare needs. The study also establishes that the elderly seek treatment for their ailments regardless of their income due to the increased health consciousness and family support. These findings necessitate immediate attention and action of the health care authorities and policymakers to formulate and implement a geriatric healthcare policy to prevent households from impoverishment and poverty.