A REVIEW ON THE DETERMINANTS AND IMPACT OF PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE UPTAKE IN ASIA
Keywords:
Private health insurance (PHI), Asia, determinants, healthcare utilization, financial protection.Abstract
This review paper examines the determinants and impacts of private health insurance (PHI) uptake across Asia through a comparative lens. Drawing upon quantitative analyses of multi-country survey data and system dynamics modeling, the paper synthesizes findings from diverse studies to elucidate how socio-demographic factors (such as age, education, and income), perceptual influences (like insurance literacy and product perception), and policy-driven variables shape PHI uptake in different Asian settings. The review further explores the effects of PHI on healthcare utilization, out-of-pocket expenditures, quality of care, and financial risk protection. Results reveal significant regional and economic disparities, highlight the influence of public healthcare policies on PHI demand, and underscore the importance of targeted policy interventions and regulatory reforms. Key research gaps and recommendations for future studies, including improved data methodologies and longitudinal approaches are discussed to inform more effective insurance strategies and health system improvements across the region.
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