Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 on Multimorbidity: Insights from Structural Equation Modeling in Colombia

Background Multimorbidity, the coexistence of multiple chronic diseases, poses significant challenges for healthcare systems worldwide. This study aims to assess the situation of multimorbidity in Colombia using structural equation models and to characterize multimorbidity by sex, age group, region, and health insurance regime between 2019 and 2023. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analytical study utilizing data from the Individual Health Service Provision Registry (RIPS) and other national databases, including the Unit of Payment by Capitation (UPC) Sufficiency Study Database. Structural equation models were employed to identify and analyze multimorbidity clusters among patients with two or more chronic diseases. Results The study revealed a multimorbidity prevalence of 61.5% in the general population. Hypertension emerged as the most prevalent chronic condition, frequently associated with diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Multimorbidity was more common in women and individuals affiliated with the contributory insurance regime. The study also identified significant variations in multimorbidity prevalence across different regions and age groups. Conclusions Multimorbidity is a prevalent issue in Colombia, with substantial variations by sex, age, and insurance regime. These findings underscore the need for tailored healthcare strategies to address the diverse needs of multimorbid patients. The results provide critical insights for health service planning and management, emphasizing the importance of continued research and policy development to mitigate the burden of chronic diseases and multimorbidity in Colombia.