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Longitudinal analysis of income-related inequalities in health care under universal coverage in Korea

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  • Watanabe,Yuichi

Abstract

More than 30 years have passed since the Republic of Korea achieved universal health coverage. This study addresses long-term income inequalities with respect to health care utilization and spending in Korea, using longitudinal data from a nationally representative health survey. I employ an extended method of factor decomposition, which allows for heterogeneity across income groups. The empirical results show that overall health care use is disproportionately concentrated among the poor. The results regarding inpatient care expenses indicate a similar pattern of pro-poor bias, while long-run inequality favors the better-off in terms of outpatient care expenditures.

Suggested Citation

  • Watanabe,Yuichi, 2023. "Longitudinal analysis of income-related inequalities in health care under universal coverage in Korea," IDE Discussion Papers 909, Institute of Developing Economies, Japan External Trade Organization(JETRO).
    • Handle: RePEc:jet:dpaper:dpaper909
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Income-related inequality|Health care|Concentration index|Health-related income mobility|Factor decomposition|Korea;

    JEL classification:

    • I14 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health and Inequality

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