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An epidemic of avoidable caesarean deliveries in the private sector in India: Is physician-induced demand at play?

Author

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  • Bhatia, M.
  • Dwivedi, L.K.
  • Banerjee, K.
  • Dixit, P.

Abstract

Caesarean section (C-section) rates of over 15% suggest overuse of the surgery which may be difficult to justify on medical grounds. One important contributor to the rise in Csection rates is the rapid expansion of unregulated private-sector providers in number of settings. This study analyses the contribution of private sector in the rapid rise in Csection deliveries in India and the extent to which these can be justified on medical grounds.

Suggested Citation

  • Bhatia, M. & Dwivedi, L.K. & Banerjee, K. & Dixit, P., 2020. "An epidemic of avoidable caesarean deliveries in the private sector in India: Is physician-induced demand at play?," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 265(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:265:y:2020:i:c:s0277953620307309
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113511
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Smith-Oka, Vania & Flores, Brenda, 2022. "Competing Narratives: Examining Obstetricians’ Decision-Making Regarding Indications for Cesarean Sections and Abdominal Incisions," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 309(C).

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