Caste and COVID-19: Exploring Variations in Health Expenditures among Different Caste Groups in India

Similar to many low- and middle-income nations, a significant proportion of Indian households rely on out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses to fund their healthcare. Such a high OOP may potentially force the most vulnerable members of society into poverty by forcing them to incur catastrophic medical expenditure. The present study aims to investigate the effects of a health shock at the national level, specifically the Covid-19 pandemic, on healthcare expenditure among various caste groups in India. I found that individuals belonging to disadvantaged caste groups (Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe) exhibit greater vulnerability to adverse health outcomes in the aftermath of a health shock as compared to those belonging to the upper caste. Households belonging to scheduled tribes have changed their consumption patterns in order to accommodate the unanticipated and increased expenses associated with healthcare. The observed variation in healthcare expenditure across caste groups can be attributed to factors such as lack of accessibility to public institutions, lack of affordability, and lack of awareness. The Covid-19 pandemic has demonstrated the need for a healthcare system that is more resilient and capable of protecting individuals across all segments of society.