Objectives As the global population ages, understanding the morbidity patterns and financial dynamics affecting geriatric patients becomes increasingly crucial. This study examines the prevalence of chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases among the elderly and evaluates the impact of financial factors, including health insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenditures. The study aims to identify the key morbidity patterns among elderly patients in a tertiary care setting, assess the adequacy of their health insurance, and explore the financial implications of their healthcare needs. Material and Methods This cross-sectional study involved 148 elderly participants among those admitted to a tertiary care hospital in India. Data were collected through a combination of medical records review and patient surveys, focusing on health conditions, health insurance status, and healthcare costs. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyse the data. Results The study found high prevalence rates of diabetes mellitus (34.5%) and hypertension (33.1%), with significant incidences of heart diseases (19.6%) and cancer (13.5%). Approximately 58.1% of participants lacked health insurance, leading to substantial out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare services. The financial strain was evident, with many older adults facing high medical costs that were not covered by insurance. The study also highlighted a significant correlation between the lack of health insurance and increased morbidity rates. Conclusion The elderly population faces significant health challenges, compounded by inadequate health insurance coverage and high healthcare costs. There is a critical need for policy reforms to enhance health insurance schemes, improve the affordability of care, and integrate comprehensive health services to address both physical and mental health needs effectively.
Priya et al. (2025) studied this question.