Urban-rural differences in catastrophic health expenditure among households with chronic non-communicable disease patients: evidence from China family panel studies

Abstract Background The prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) challenges the Chinese health system reform. Little is known for differences in catastrophic expenditure (CHE) between urban and rural households with NCD patients. This study aims to measure above quantify contribution each variable explaining urban-rural differences. Methods Unbalanced panel data were obtained from China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) conducted 2012 2018. techniques Fairlie nonlinear decomposition Blinder-Oaxaca employed independent Results CHE incidence intensity patients significantly higher areas than areas. increased 8.07% 8.18% 2018, while decreased 2.15% 2.05% From disparity explained by household income self-assessed status head some extent. During same period, education attainment decreased, slightly. Conclusions Compared patients, had risk incurring heavier economic burden diseases. There was no substantial change inequality 2018 compared 2012. Policy interventions should give priority improving income, awareness NCDs.