Kerala’s healthcare expenditures are on the rise due to an increase in lifestyle diseases and the high cost of medical care. A recent survey by the National Sample Survey Office found that out-of-pocket expenses in Kerala are the highest in the country, more than double the national average. The Comprehensive Annual Modular Survey revealed that the state’s out-of-pocket expenditure for hospitalised treatment is Rs 8,655 in rural areas and Rs 10,341 in urban areas, significantly higher than the national average.
The high prevalence of lifestyle diseases in Kerala, along with the high cost of diagnostic tests and treatments, has contributed to the increase in healthcare costs. The closure of small hospitals and the growth of corporate hospitals have also added to the financial burden on residents. Additionally, the reluctance to seek treatment in government institutions has further increased out-of-pocket expenses in the state.
Kerala’s per capita health expenditure in 2021-22 was almost four times the national average, highlighting the growing concerns about rising healthcare costs in the state. The challenges facing Kerala’s healthcare system are putting a strain on the population, with many struggling to afford necessary medical care. The government and healthcare providers will need to address these issues to ensure that healthcare remains accessible and affordable for all residents of Kerala.
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