Published Paper Details:

This research investigates the inequality in health status and healthcare expenditure among elderly Syrian Christians in Kerala, India, focusing on various demographic and socioeconomic factors. Using the Gini coefficient, the study examines the distribution patterns of health indices and healthcare spending across different denominations, regions, living statuses, places of residence, and income groups. At the aggregate level, while the inequality in health status among the elderly is relatively low, significant disparities exist in healthcare expenditure, particularly in environmental, mental, and social health expenditures. Community-wise analysis reveals variations in expenditure distribution across different types of healthcare, suggesting the need for targeted interventions. Regionally, the Malabar area stands out with the lowest health status and highest inequality, emphasizing the necessity for enhanced healthcare programs in this region. Additionally, disparities in healthcare expenditure are pronounced in urban-rural divides, with rural elderly facing higher inequality and lower expenditure compared to their urban counterparts. Furthermore, income disparities contribute significantly to inequality in healthcare expenditure, with those below average income experiencing higher disparities. This underscores the urgency for increased healthcare spending targeting low-income elderly populations. Overall, this study highlights the nuanced inequalities in health status and healthcare expenditure among elderly Syrian Christians in Kerala, providing valuable insights for policymakers to formulate targeted interventions to improve healthcare accessibility and equity for this demographic.