An approach to out-of-pocket health expenditures in Colombia

Abstract

This research had the objective of identifying the main structures of pocket expenditure in health. It is highlighted that Colombia, having less out-of-pocket spending, is below the average determined by the World Health Organization, making it easier for Colombian households to direct those economic resources in the acquisition of other services or goods. We will take as a theoretical reference to health economics that its field of research has as its object of study the optimal use of resources for the care of diseases and the promotion of health. The research approach was qualitative, descriptive, while the work compiled information based on documentary, systematic and empirical review of the economic elements of out-of-pocket expenditure on health of the Colombian population within the framework of the General Social Security System. in Health in Colombia. The results of the review allow the identification of household out-of-pocket health expenses, where the consumption of drugs that are not included in the health benefits Plan - PBS stands out. It can be concluded that Colombia stands out for having low private spending on health, both in insurance and in out-of-pocket spending, to a certain extent due to the fundamental right to health established in the statutory law, where great importance is attached to the principle of equity.