Accessibility and use of health services among older Estonian population

The aim of the study was to analyse the self-reported use of health services among the older Estonian population, to explain the predictors of health care utilisation and to study access to health services in comparison with other population groups. In November 2005, a randomly sampled Estonian residents aged 15-64 (n=1264) and 65-74 (n=182) was personally interviewed using structured questionnaires. Of the respondents aged 65-74, 81% reported having visited a general practitioner (GP) or specialist during the previous 12 months. Compared to younger people they used health services more often, except dental care. No significant differences were found in comparison with the waiting times to see the general practitioner or specialist between the younger and older population groups. Compared to the rest of the population people aged 65-74 were more satisfied with their access to health services. The probability of visiting a GP was higher for those respondents who had health problems and lived in rural areas. The presence of chronic illness also had an effect on the use of specialist services and ambulance services. Higher education, living in an urban area and having a family member with a chronic illness predicted the use of ambulance services as well. Younger age, higher income and higher education were predictors of the use of dental services. The availability of and access to health services for older people in Estonia are comparable with other groups of the population.