Assessment of healthcare financing by older adults during routine consultations in Cameroon

Although older adults' care extends beyond strictly medical concerns, access to healthcare services remains a major challenge at this stage of life. The increasing demand for healthcare often coincides with declining functional abilities, cessation of income-generating activities, and insufficient coverage by social protection systems. This study aimed to estimate the medical expenses incurred during routine consultations by older adults in Yaoundé, in the absence of universal health coverage, and to identify the methods used to finance these healthcare costs. A descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted in four health facilities in Yaounde between February and March 2023. The study included individuals aged 60 and above who attended outpatient consultations at the selected facilities and were recruited after their medical appointments. A total of 170 participants were included, with a mean age of 68.4 years. Most respondents lived in socially and economically vulnerable conditions, particularly women. Cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and urological conditions accounted for 70.5% of consultation reasons. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity (28.2%), followed by rheumatic disorders (21.1%) and diabetes (19.7%). The average cost of a routine medical consultation, including medications and diagnostic tests, was 42,958 XAF (approximately €65.49). In 90.6% of cases, care was financed through direct out-of-pocket household payments. In Cameroon, healthcare expenses for older adults are primarily borne by households, which limits access to care for those with low incomes. Implementing a more inclusive and equitable health system, integrated into a comprehensive social protection policy, is essential to meet the growing needs of this vulnerable population.