Inequalities in access to health services among older adults in Colombia, 2015−2023

Abstract

Disparities in access to health services for older adults in Colombia require monitoring. This study examines inequalities in access to health services among Colombian adults aged 60 and older from 2015 to 2023, using data from the Colombian National Quality of Life surveys. Levesque’s model was applied to evaluate the abilities to perceive, seek, reach, pay for, and engage with healthcare services. A composite score was used to aggregate these dimensions, reflecting overall access to health services. Stratified analyses were conducted to explore disparities by sex, region, residence, and income. The results indicate that access to health services varied over time, with notable discrepancies based on sex, region, residence, and income. Urban residents and individuals from higher-income households consistently experienced better access to healthcare services. Disparities persisted across the study period, with the greatest regional differences observed in 2023. These findings underscore the importance of addressing these inequalities to ensure equitable healthcare for Colombia’s aging population.