Out of Pocket Expenditure on Institutional Deliveries in India.

Background: Out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) and catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) on institutional deliveries in India impose significant financial burdens, disproportionately affecting socio-economically vulnerable populations and regions despite various policy interventions.

Purpose: This study evaluates the extent of OOPE and CHE associated with institutional deliveries across Indian states and analyse regional variations using data from National Family Health Survey -5 (2019-21).

Results: The findings reveal substantial inter-state and regional disparities in mean OOPE and CHE incidence, with socioeconomic and healthcare system factors significantly influencing these outcomes.

Conclusion: Effective interventions to reduce OOPE and CHS on deliveries can significantly improve maternal and child health outcomes thereby achieving healthcare equity in the country.