Analysis of Financial Risk Protection Indicators in Resource-Limited Country Setting for Caesarean Section

Background Caesarean section (C-section) is a critical surgical procedure to address complications during childbirth. However, in resource-limited settings, the financial burden of C-sections can be substantial, affecting households' economic stability and access to healthcare. Financial risk protection indicators are essential for assessing the extent to which healthcare systems protect individuals from catastrophic and impoverishing healthcare expenditures. Understanding financial risk protection for C-sections in resource-limited settings is crucial for informing policy and improving healthcare financing strategies. This study aims to analyse financial risk protection indicators in a specific resource-limited country to identify gaps and propose actionable recommendations. Primary Objective To assess financial risk protection for caesarean sections in a resource-limited country setting. Secondary Objectives 1. To evaluate the prevalence of catastrophic health expenditures (CHE) due to C-sections. 2. To analyse the incidence of impoverishment caused by out-of-pocket (OOP) payments for C-sections. 3. To identify factors associated with financial risk protection in the context of C-sections. 4. To provide policy recommendations for improving financial risk protection for C-sections. Study Design A cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study. Study Setting The study will be conducted in [Country], focusing on both urban and rural healthcare facilities where C-sections are performed. Data Collection Data will be collected from secondary sources such as household surveys, hospital records, and national health accounts. Key indicators will include: • Household income and expenditure data. • Healthcare utilization data specific to C-sections. • OOP payments for C-sections. • Insurance coverage and other financial protection mechanisms. Sampling A stratified random sampling method will be used to ensure representation from various socioeconomic groups and geographical locations. Approximately [sample size] households with recent C-section experiences will be surveyed. Data Analysis Quantitative data will be analysed using statistical software (e.g., Stata, SPSS). Key analyses will include: • Calculation of CHE and impoverishment indicators. • Regression analysis to identify factors associated with financial risk protection. • Descriptive statistics to summarize demographic and socioeconomic characteristics. Ethical Considerations Ethical approval will be obtained from [Institutional Review Board]. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants, ensuring confidentiality and voluntary participation. Expected Outcomes 1. Comprehensive understanding of financial risk protection for C-sections in the selected country. 2. Identification of the extent and determinants of CHE and impoverishment due to C-sections. 3. Evidence-based recommendations for policymakers to enhance financial risk protection mechanisms.