Prevalence and cost of illness episodes in rural Bolivia

As part of a demonstration project to improve the delivery of health services in rural Bolivia, a household survey of 3372 persons (98% participation) was conducted in the Montero region of eastern Bolivia during the last 3 months of 1977. The population surveyed was relatively young, 52% less than 15 years of age. Spells of illness occurring during the 14 days prior to the survey were reported by 42% of the population. Nearly half (46%) of these symptomatic illnesses, here defined as illness episodes, were respiratory or gastrointestinal problems, and medical assistance was sought for 21% of them. Physicians were consulted by 70% of the persons who sought medical assistance. Only 39% of persons disabled 3 or more days by a symptomatic illness obtained medical assistance. The average expenditure for illness episodes during the preceding 2 weeks was $2.13 per person, 76% for medication, 15% for fees, 5% for transportation, and 4% for other expenses. The results of this survey are intended to aid the Bolivian government in planning more effectively for improved rural health services.