Pattern of Utilization of Outpatient Health Services among Older People of Iran

Background: The increase in the aged population has been accompanied by an increase in demand for health services. Knowledge and understanding of how to benefit and use health services, especially in the elderly population, are essential for resource allocation and health planning. This study aims to determine the status of utilization of outpatient services in the Iranian elderly and to explore determinant factors.     Methods: The present study is a secondary analysis study, the primary study of which is a cross-sectional National Study on the Utilization of Health Services, including 22470 households across the country. Study population was older people aged 60 and over with the sample size of 8205 individuals. The data were collected using personal and household questionnaires for outpatient services. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify relationships between socio economic status and utilization of services. Results: At the time of the interview, 3152 out of 8205 people needed services of which 2073 people finally received the required services. The factors related to outpatient services utilization were gender (p=0.03), insurance status (p=0.002), education (p<0.001). Conclusion: Inequality in the use of outpatient services reflects the socioeconomic differences such as the coverage of supplementary insurance and education. As a result, it is expected that by improving livelihoods, improving lifestyle, increasing insurance coverage, integrating insurance companies and expanding the family physician program, justice will increase in access to outpatient services.