Estimates and Analysis of Regional Total Health Expenditure in China in 2023

Feng Jing; Chai Peipei; Li Yan

Abstract：Objective:It aims to analyze regional disparity and evolution trend of health financing level and structure,providing a reference for subsequent adjustment and improvement of regional health financing policy.Methods:Based on the estimates of Total Health Expenditure(THE)by financing source,it examined the levels,structures,and trends of regional health financing.Results:In 2023,THE across regions continued to increase,but there are still significant disparities among regions,with the eastern region significantly higher than the central and western regions.Additionally,the structure of THE varied greatly by region,and the share of Out-of-Pocket payment(OOP)still accounted for a relatively high proportion in some regions.Conclusion:There are significant disparities in health investment across different regions in China,which may exacerbate health inequities.The differences in financing structures among regions are pronounced,and some areas face challenges in achieving the targets set out in the 14th Five-Year Plan regarding the proportion of OOP in THE.There is a need to optimize the health financing system,emphasizing inclusive development to ensure that health financing is adequate,effective,equitable,and sustainable.