Healthcare Provider Choices in Vietnam
Author Information
Author(s): Thuan Nguyen Thi Bich, Lofgren Curt, Lindholm Lars, Chuc Nguyen Thi Kim
Primary Institution: Hanoi Medical University
Hypothesis
How do healthcare reforms in Vietnam affect the choice of medical providers and household healthcare expenditures?
Conclusion
The study highlights significant disparities in healthcare provider usage and expenditures between different socioeconomic groups in Vietnam.
Supporting Evidence
- Private health providers were used in almost 60% of illness episodes.
- Self-treatment was more common among the poor, accounting for 31% of their illness episodes.
- Education level significantly influenced healthcare provider choices.
Takeaway
In Vietnam, many people choose private healthcare or treat themselves instead of going to public hospitals, especially if they are poor.
Methodology
The study involved twelve monthly interviews of 621 randomly selected households over a year.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in reporting illnesses, especially among poorer individuals who may underreport to avoid costs.
Limitations
The study may underestimate the association between distance to healthcare providers and utilization due to data limitations.
Participant Demographics
The study included households from a rural district in Vietnam, with a population of 235,000 comprising mainly Kinh, Muong, and Dao ethnic groups.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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