Health and Healthcare Inequities in Malawi
Author Information
Author(s): Zere Eyob, Moeti Matshidiso, Kirigia Joses, Mwase Takondwa, Kataika Edward
Primary Institution: World Health Organization
Hypothesis
This study attempts to assess trends in inequities in selected indicators of health status and health service utilization in Malawi.
Conclusion
The widening trend in inequities in healthcare utilization is likely to jeopardize the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals.
Supporting Evidence
- Pro-rich inequities in health indicators have been observed, indicating that the rich benefit more from health services.
- The concentration index for infant mortality showed significant inequity favoring the non-poor.
- Immunization coverage has declined among the poor, widening the gap in health service utilization.
Takeaway
In Malawi, rich people are getting more healthcare than poor people, which is unfair and makes it harder for everyone to be healthy.
Methodology
Data from Demographic and Health Surveys of 1992, 2000, and 2004 were analyzed for inequities using quintile ratios and concentration curves/indices.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in data collection and analysis methods may affect the results.
Limitations
The study only compares the two extreme wealth quintiles and does not account for the middle quintiles.
Participant Demographics
The study focuses on health indicators across different wealth quintiles in Malawi.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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