A Random Parameter Logit model for modeling Health Care Provider Choice in Bolivia

In this paper we model health care provider choice in Bolivia with a Random Parameter Logit (RPL) using MECOVI data during the period 1999 and 2000. To our knowledge this is the first time that a RPL is used for modeling health care provider choice in Bolivia. We found that price and income are determinants of the decision choice of health care provider. Increasing government prices or fees shift the demand from government to private health facilities for children and women. In addition, women are more sensitive than children and adults to changes in price and income. The perception of Quality is significant just for private health facilities except for children. Finally, people would rather private instead of government facilities and self care treatment when they are ill.