Factors affecting out-of-pocket expenditures for chronic and acute illnesses in Bangladesh

In the absence of universal healthcare protection, out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditures are the main source of healthcare financing in Bangladesh. This study assesses the disparities in the overall and the components of OOP expenditures among households with both chronic and acute illnesses compared to those having acute illnesses only. It also identifies factors influencing OOP expenditures over time and examines patterns related to various illness conditions.

The study findings show a notable increase among households managing both chronic and acute illnesses, and in urban areas. Key contributors to increased expenditures include medicines, medical tests and surgery costs, with cancer causing higher expenses. This study recommends improving treatment protocols help reduce unnecessary prescriptions of medicine and investigations, and alleviate financial burdens of the vulnerable population. Policy recommendations to address the challenges of increasing OOP expenditures could include interventions to support households affected by chronic conditions, including a fair pricing system of essential medicines and extended insurance coverage for chronic diseases.

Read the full article here: Factors affecting out-of-pocket expenditures for chronic and acute illnesses in Bangladesh

Khan JJ, Sehrin F, Quayyum Z, Sarker AR, Rahman MS (2025). PLoS ONE 20(4): e0320429.