The Impact of Economic Accessibility of Healthcare Services on the Health ‎of Elderly Individuals in China

Honglin Deng; Somchai  Bovornkitti; Sarisak  Soontornchai; Xiaoqiang  Qiu

Authors

Honglin Deng Hospital of Guangxi Medical University
Somchai Bovornkitti Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
Sarisak Soontornchai Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand
Xiaoqiang Qiu Guangxi Medical University, China

Keywords:

Keywords: economic accessibility; healthcare services; elderly health; China; aging population

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the relationship between economic accessibility of healthcare services and health outcomes among elderly individuals in China.

Materials and Methods: This study used panel data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) covering 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2022. A panel fixed-effects regression model was applied to analyze the relationship between out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure ratios and elderly health outcomes (physical health, mental health, and life satisfaction). Control variables included age, gender, residence, caregiving support, employment, and family relationships. Mechanism analysis examined exercise, smoking, and alcohol consumption as mediating variables.

Results: Greater economic accessibility to healthcare significantly improved both physical and mental health outcomes among elderly individuals (p < 0.05). Exercise emerged as the primary mediating mechanism. Women showed greater sensitivity to healthcare affordability, particularly regarding mental health. Poorer elderly individuals and those aged 80 and above experienced stronger benefits. Urban elders benefited more from accessibility improvements compared to rural elders due to better infrastructure and support systems.

Conclusion: Economic accessibility of healthcare services plays a crucial role in promoting elderly health in China, primarily through encouraging increased physical activity. Healthcare policies should prioritize reducing out-of-pocket burdens, addressing urban-rural disparities, and promoting preventive health behaviors to ensure equitable health outcomes in an aging society.

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