Health Policy Manag.  2022 Sep;32(3):282-292. 10.4332/KJHPA.2022.32.3.282.

Association between Changes in Multiple Chronic Conditions and Health Expenditures among Elderly in South Korea: Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging 2014–2018

• Park S
• Nam JY

• KMID: 2534972
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4332/KJHPA.2022.32.3.282

Abstract

Background
Aging societies face social problems of increased medical expenses for older adults due to increased geriatric diseases. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the state change of multiple chronic conditions (MCC) and out-of-pocket medical expenses in the elderly aged 60 or older.
Methods
The 2014–2018 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging data were used for 2,202 elderly people. Four status change groups were established according to the change in the number of chronic diseases. The association between the change of MCC and the out-of-pocket medical cost was analyzed using the generalized estimating equation model analysis.
Results
The average out-of-pocket total medical costs were 1,384,900 won for participants with MCC and 542,700 won for those without MCC, which was a statistically significant difference (p<0.0001). Compared to the reference group (simple chronic disease, SCD→SCD), the change in multiple chronic conditions significantly increased the total out-of-pocket medical expenses in MCC→MCC and SCD→MCC groups (MCC→MCC: β=0.8260, β<0.0001; SCD→MCC: β=0.6607, β<0.0001).
Conclusion
In this study, it was confirmed that the prevalence of MCC increased with age, and the out-of-pocket medical cost increased in the case of MCC. Continuity of treatment can be achieved for patients with MCC, and the system and management of treatment for MCC are required to receive appropriate treatment.

Keyword

Multiple chronic conditions; Health expenditures; Health care costs; Aged