earticle

영어

Objectives: This study explored the impact of the perceived medical cost burden on outpatient satisfaction. Methods: Using data from the 2023 Korean Health Care Experience Survey (n=8,906), we examined the associations between unmet medical needs owing to financial reasons, satisfaction with treatment, and overall care. Multiple regression and subgroup analyses were performed. Results: Only forgoing treatment due to cost significantly reduced treatment satisfaction (β=-0.030, p<0.05). Other unmet needs and cost-related factors had no significant effects on overall satisfaction. Longer wait times, higher education, regional choice factors, and extreme healthcare awareness were also associated with lower satisfaction. Conclusions: Actual treatment avoidance, and not just cost perception, reduces outpatient satisfaction. Targeted policy efforts should address financial barriers to essential care.