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International Journal for Equity in Health

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Open Access 01-12-2015 | Research

Is utilization of health services for HIV patients equal by socioeconomic status? Evidence from the Basque country

Authors: Manuel García-Goñi, Roberto Nuño-Solinís, Juan F. Orueta, Francesco Paolucci

Published in: International Journal for Equity in Health | Issue 1/2015

Abstract

Introduction

Access to ART and health services is guaranteed under universal coverage to improve life expectancy and quality of life for HIV patients. However, it remains unknown whether patients of different socioeconomic background equally use different types of health services.

Methods

We use one-year (2010–2011) data on individual healthcare utilization and expenditures for the total population (N = 2262698) of the Basque Country. We observe the prevalence of HIV and use OLS regressions to estimate the impact on health utilization of demographic, socioeconomic characteristics, and health status in such patients.

Results

HIV prevalence per 1000 individuals is greater the lower the socioeconomic status (0.784 for highest; 2.135 for lowest), for males (1.616) versus females (0.729), and for middle-age groups (26–45 and 46–65). Health expenditures are 11826€ greater for HIV patients than for others, but with differences by socioeconomic group derived from a different mix of services utilization (total cost of 13058€ for poorest, 14960€ for richest). Controlling for health status and demographic variables, poor HIV patients consume more on pharmaceuticals; rich in specialists and hospital care. Therefore, there is inequity in health services utilization by socioeconomic groups.

Conclusions

Equity in health provision for HIV patients represents a challenge even if access to treatment is guaranteed. Lack of information in poorer individuals might lead to under-provision while richer individuals might demand over-provision. We recommend establishing accurate clinical guidelines with the appropriate mix of health provision by validated need for all socioeconomic groups; promoting educational programs so that patients demand the appropriate mix of services, and stimulating integrated care for HIV patients with multiple chronic conditions.

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Title: Is utilization of health services for HIV patients equal by socioeconomic status? Evidence from the Basque country
Authors: Manuel García-Goñi
Roberto Nuño-Solinís
Juan F. Orueta
Francesco Paolucci
Publication date: 01-12-2015
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: International Journal for Equity in Health / Issue 1/2015
Electronic ISSN: 1475-9276
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-015-0215-6

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Is utilization of health services for HIV patients equal by socioeconomic status? Evidence from the Basque country

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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