Determinants of Private Channeling Fees of Cardiologists in Sri Lanka

This paper examines the determinants of private medical channeling fees across Sri Lanka, focusing on the financial burden of healthcare expenditures despite free public services. Using basic data from an online channeling platform and other relevant data sources, the study analyzes fee variations for cardiologists across the country. Key factors driving fee variations, such as hospital location, doctor experience and service demand were identified using descriptive statistics and Power BI analysis. The findings aim to guide healthcare policymakers in regulating costs, improving resource allocation and improving equitable access to healthcare services. Furthermore, findings aim to assist patients in seeking services that offer optimal value for their money. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a focused analysis on channeling fees within the context of both out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure (OOPE) and online healthcare services in Sri Lanka, addressing a previously unexplored area in the local context.