Out-of-pocket medical expenses

Context: A government survey reported that the average out-of-pocket medical expenses for hospitalization over the past year were Rs 4,129 in rural areas and Rs 5,290 in urban areas.

Key Data Points from the Govt Survey (July 2022-June 2023)

• Out-of-Pocket medical expenditure: Hospitalisation: Rural households spent an average of ₹4,129 per year; urban households spent ₹5,290. Non-hospitalisation treatments: Rural households spent ₹539 per month; urban households spent ₹606.

• Hospitalisation: Rural households spent an average of ₹4,129 per year; urban households spent ₹5,290.

• Non-hospitalisation treatments: Rural households spent ₹539 per month; urban households spent ₹606.

• Literacy and numeracy: 96.9% of individuals aged 15-24 can read, write, and perform simple arithmetic. Literacy rates: 97.8% for males and 95.9% for females in the 15-24 age group.

• 96.9% of individuals aged 15-24 can read, write, and perform simple arithmetic.

• Literacy rates: 97.8% for males and 95.9% for females in the 15-24 age group.

• Education, Employment, and Training: 23.3% of the 15-24 age group were not in education, employment, or training (NEET). The NEET figure rises to 25.6% for those aged 15-29.

• 23.3% of the 15-24 age group were not in education, employment, or training (NEET).

• The NEET figure rises to 25.6% for those aged 15-29.

• Digital access: 95.1% of households have a telephone or mobile connection. Only 9.9% of households have access to computers. 95.7% of individuals aged 15-24 in rural areas and 97% in urban areas can use mobile phones.

• 95.1% of households have a telephone or mobile connection.

• Only 9.9% of households have access to computers.

• 95.7% of individuals aged 15-24 in rural areas and 97% in urban areas can use mobile phones.

Relevance to UPSC syllabus:

• Social issues and development: Highlights gaps in healthcare access and costs in rural and urban areas.

• Governance and policy-making: Useful in evaluating policies related to health and education.

• Economic development: Data on out-of-pocket expenses aids in understanding financial burden on households.

• Education and skill development: Provides insights into literacy and skill training needs for youth.