India, March 26 -- Seven of 10 heart failure (HF) patients in India lack financial health protection, according to a new study.

HF accounts for 1.8 million hospitalisations in India annually and places a considerable burden on the health system due to prolonged inpatient care and the need for long-term management, straining already limited healthcare resources. Further, due to its debilitating nature, HF is also known for its massive financial burden on patients, caregivers, and society.

According to the study, the annual out of pocket (OOP) expenditure accounted for over 90 per cent of the total health spending. Lower socio-economic status, rural residence, lack of insurance, and multi-morbidity were key predictors of financial hardshi...