Struggling with health care access, patients across Asia confess, according to a Prudential-funded research project
In a bid to engage a globally influential audience, Economist Impact, a unique blend of a think-tank and a media brand, has recently released the "Patient voices: experiences of healthcare access Asia" report. Commissioned by Roche, this comprehensive study examines individuals' experiences in accessing healthcare services in four Asian markets: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.
The report, accessible at this link, is an Economist Impact report, commissioned by Prudential, a leading life and health insurance and asset management company operating in Greater China, ASEAN, India, and Africa. The analysis is based on a survey of 4,302 people conducted in April to May in 2025.
One of the key findings of the report is the increasing reliance on digital tools for healthcare, with almost 40% of patients using digital tools including artificial intelligence (AI) for treatment guidance after initial diagnosis. This trend indicates a growing trust in digital sources to guide treatment decisions after diagnosis.
However, the report also highlights challenges faced by patients in accessing care. Nearly half of the respondents reported not knowing where to access care when they have health concerns, and one-third found healthcare costs to be higher than expected. Furthermore, nearly five in ten respondents turn to social safety nets such as family, charities, loans, or crowdfunding due to high costs.
For 80% of respondents who delayed care, the fear of becoming a financial or care burden on loved ones was the most frequently cited reason. This underscores the need for clearer help for patients to find the right care. Arjan Toor, CEO, Health at Prudential plc, echoes this sentiment, stating that patients need clearer help to find the right care.
Prudential's mission is to be the most trusted partner and protector for this generation and generations to come, by providing simple and accessible financial and health solutions. The company, which has dual primary listings on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong and the London Stock Exchange, and a secondary listing on the Singapore Stock Exchange and a listing on the New York Stock Exchange in the form of American Depositary Receipts, is committed to shaping healthcare around what patients need.
Economist Impact, the organisation behind the report, offers a range of services including creative storytelling, events expertise, design-thinking solutions, market-leading media products, framework design, economic and social impact analysis, forecasting, and scenario modelling. The "Patient voices: experiences of healthcare access Asia" report is a testament to their commitment to using their expertise to address critical issues in the healthcare sector.
Despite the growing reliance on digital tools, 55% of patients say they don't have the right information to make decisions about their medical treatment. This highlights the need for more transparent and accessible information to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
In conclusion, the "Patient voices: experiences of healthcare access Asia" report provides valuable insights into the experiences of patients in accessing healthcare services in four Asian markets. The report underscores the need for clearer help for patients to find the right care and for more transparent and accessible information to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
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